Honouring Te Tiriti o Waitangi and Tikanga Māori

• Partnership: Build genuine relationships with local iwi, hapū and Māori organisations. Invite Māori representatives to participate in club governance and decision-making. 
• Participation: Ensure Māori members and whānau feel welcomed and valued. Offer opportunities for Māori to contribute to club activities, leadership, and cultural events. 
• Participation:Respect and uphold tikanga Māori (customs and protocols) in club operations. Incorporate te reo Māori in communications, signage and ceremonies. Provide cultural safety training for staff and volunteers. 
• Representation: Include Māori perspectives in club policies, planning, and programmes. Consider establishing a Māori advisory group or appointing a Māori liaison officer. 
• Celebration: Celebrate Māori culture through events such as Matariki, kapa haka performances and pōwhiri (welcoming ceremonies). Recognise Māori achievements and leadership within the club. 
• Learning: Encourage all members to learn about Te Tiriti o Waitangi, Māori history and tikanga. Provide resources and workshops to build cultural competency.

Example Initiatives 

• Begin meetings with a karakia (prayer) or mihi (greeting). 
• Partner with local marae for joint events or workshops. 
• Offer te reo Māori classes or resources for members. 
• Include Māori values such as manaakitanga (hospitality), whanaungatanga (relationships) and kotahitanga (unity) in club policies and practices. 
• Celebrate Māori Language Week and other cultural milestones.

Practical tips for member-centred operations 

• Welcome pack: Provide new members with a welcome pack including club information, contacts list and upcoming events calendar. 
• Feedback channels: Set up regular feedback mechanisms (surveys, suggestion boxes, online forms) and act on what you learn. 
• Recognition: Celebrate member achievements with awards, spotlights in newsletters or social media shout-outs. 
• Support: Offer resources for wellbeing, skill development and personal growth. Connect members with external support if needed. 
• Community building: Organise regular social events, volunteer opportunities and collaborative projects to strengthen bonds.

Example initiatives 

• Monthly ‘Member of the Month’ award • Annual club survey with results shared and acted upon • Buddy system for new members 
• Inclusive language and imagery in all communications 
• Youth leadership workshops

Practical matters 

• Membership database/register, membership categories 
• Subscription management, fee collection 
• Registration and waitlists
• Selection policies