Watch & Wānanga: Strengthening Community Governance Together Series 2026

We are pleased to be creating a local Watch and Wānanga space alongside the Community Governance Aotearoa Good Governance Code online workshop series. This six-part national series unpacks each principle (pou) of the Good Governance Code, a practical resource designed specifically for community organisations in Aotearoa.

How the Good Governance Code was developed

The Good Governance Code was not created in isolation. It was developed by Community Governance Aotearoa through wide engagement with the community sector. It reflects years of experience from board members, trustees, governance advisors, and sector leaders across Aotearoa.

The Code brings together:

• Practical governance experience from community boards and committees
• Te Ao Māori values and leadership principles
• International governance thinking adapted to the Aotearoa context
• Feedback from organisations about what good governance looks like in practice

The result is a six-principle framework that is values-based, Te Tiriti aware, and grounded in the realities of community organisations. It is freely accessible and has been widely downloaded and used across the country

Importantly, the Code recognises that governance in Aotearoa must reflect our unique cultural context. It places emphasis on leadership that is purposeful, accountable, inclusive and connected to community impact.

What to expcet in the watch & Wānanga sessions
Each session includes:

• A deep dive into one principle
• Practical board actions you can take immediately
• Real case studies showing what good governance looks like in practice
• Breakout room whakawhanaungatanga to connect with others
• Guided discussion and structured feedback using practical tools

As a local network, our intention is simple: to strengthen governance capability across Kāpiti by learning together.

Good governance is not just about compliance. It is about clarity of purpose, sound decision-making, stewardship of resources, and leadership that serves community well. The Good Governance Code provides a shared language and structured framework to help boards reflect on how they lead and where they can grow.

By participating, either online individually or through our local Watch and Wānanga space, you can:

• Build confidence in board roles and responsibilities
• Strengthen strategic thinking and accountability
• Learn practical tools you can bring straight to your next board meeting
• Connect with others navigating similar governance challenges

Strong governance strengthens organisations. Strong organisations strengthen community.

To stay updated on the full series dates and our local Watch and Wānanga sessions, email info@volunteerkapiti.org.nz
and ask to be added to our training list. We’ll make sure you receive all upcoming governance and capability-building opportunities straight to your inbox.