Community Networks Aotearoa

07/10/2026

We know our sector creates huge value. But are we doing enough to demonstrate it?

The 2026 JBWere and The University of Waikato report gives us some powerful evidence, showing the scale of the contribution New Zealand’s Not-for-Profit sector makes to our economy and communities.

At the same time, many frontline organisations are navigating shrinking donor bases, rising costs and increasingly fragile financial margins.

So, what do the numbers tell us, and how can we use them to make a stronger case for change?

Join us for our next Sharp Strategies kōrero with Louisa Joblin (MoranLaw), Eleanor Cater (Community Foundations of Aotearoa NZ) and report co-author Dr William McInerney, JBWere.

We’ll explore the data, the stories behind the numbers, and what they could mean for the future of funding and support for our sector.

📅 Wednesday 14 October
🕘 11am–12pm
💻 Online via Zoom
🎟️ Free

Event registration link is in the comments 👇

📖 Read the report: https://www.jbwere.co.nz/the-economic-value-of-the-sector-form

Have a question you’d like to put to our speakers? Send it through to Patrick, CNA Engagement Officer, at [email protected].

09/09/2026

🎙️ New episode of Collaborative Voices!

In the latest episode, Ros sits down with David Hanna, Director of Wesley Community Action, to talk about People’s Voice, an initiative creating space for the people and communities too often left out of the conversation.

"Because the people closest to an issue often have the clearest view of what needs to change."

Following a recent People’s Voice event in Porirua that brought together more than 100 people, David shares what sparked the initiative, what was heard in the room, and what needs to change in the way decision-makers, funders and communities listen to one another.

Tune in to the kōrero here: https://accessradio.org.nz/shows-podcasts/collaborative-voices/

Wellington Access Radio 106.1FM

19/08/2026

Last night we had the privilege of attending the launch of the Older Persons Poverty Monitor, by the New Zealand Council Of Christian Social Services.

Until now, Aotearoa New Zealand has not had a consistent, comprehensive way to understand and track poverty among people aged 65 and over.

The Monitor provides a national baseline across income, essentials, housing, connection and health, giving us a clearer picture of where older people are struggling and a way to track whether things are improving or getting worse.

A crucial step towards ensuring the experiences of older people are better understood and that we have the evidence needed to drive change.

"Because what we measure, we can change."

Explore the data and download the full report here: https://nzccss.org.nz/older-persons-poverty-monitor/

05/08/2026

What an incredible couple of days at Connecting for Change last week co-hosted with our conference partner New Zealand Council Of Christian Social Services.

Thank you to everyone who has shared such kind words since the conference, it means a lot to see the kaupapa resonating!

To all our attendees, thank you for taking time out of your mahi and communities to come together and contribute your ideas, stories and expertise.

To our speakers, presenters and workshop hosts, we're so grateful for the way you generously shared your knowledge and experience.

To the government agencies and MPs who joined us, thank you for engaging so openly with the sector.

And to our sponsors, Ministry of Social Development NZ, Social Investment Agency, Frank Group, Bridget Williams Books, Rothbury Insurance Brokers, and First Credit Union, your support made this event possible.

📸 Photos by .creative Catch all the moments from Connecting for Change in the full gallery: https://sarahjeancreative.pixieset.com/connectingforchangeconference2026/

Ngā mihi nui to everyone who was part of it 💛

08/07/2026

How do we create lasting change? It starts with connection.

At this year's Connecting for Change Conference, we're proud to welcome Nathan Mahikai Riki, Riki Consultancy Ltd as one of our keynote speakers.

In a world that often focuses on systems, policies, and outcomes, Nathan reminds us of a simple but powerful truth: people are the pathway to change.

Drawing on a Te Ao Māori perspective, Nathan will explore how whakawhanaungatanga, trust, and Te Tiriti o Waitangi can help shape more equitable, inclusive ways of working. Through practical reflection, attendees will be encouraged to consider what they would hear, see, and feel in an organisation that truly values culture, identity, and belonging, and the role each of us plays in creating that environment.

Whether you work in the community sector, local government, philanthropy, or alongside communities across Aotearoa, this keynote offers valuable insights into building stronger relationships that lead to meaningful, lasting impact.

With only a handful of tickets remaining, now's your chance to be part of the conversations shaping the future of our sector. Join us and our conference partners, New Zealand Council Of Christian Social ServicesNew Zealand Council of Christian Social Services (NZCCSS), at Connecting for Change on 28–29 July 2026 at Harbourside Function Venue.

🎟️: https://events.humanitix.com/connecting-for-change-conference

28/06/2026

Only one month to go until Connecting for Change, and we're now over 80% sold!

The full programme and workshop line-up are now live, with two days of learning, connection and practical ideas to take back to your community.

For CNA members, our Membership Support Fund is available to help make attending possible if cost is a barrier. If you've been meaning to register, now's a great time to secure your spot.

We'd love to have you join us in Wellington this July as we come together to connect, learn and create change.

Ngā mihi nui.

New Zealand Council Of Christian Social Services

22/06/2026

Connecting for Change Speaker Spotlight: Lizzie Makalio, Wesley Community Action

"The Club Whānau Journey"

Working alongside club and gang whānau is a journey. It doesn't happen overnight, but meaningful change is possible when we take the time to see people as people, not just the patch.

With more than 17 years' experience designing and delivering initiatives alongside club whānau in the Wellington region and across Aotearoa, Lizzie brings a powerful perspective grounded in trust, connection, and lived experience.

This session will explore what it takes to create safe, inclusive spaces where people can reflect, learn, grow, and lead on their own terms. It's not about fixing people. It's about walking alongside one another and supporting positive change from within communities.

Join us at Connecting for Change and be part of the conversation.

Tickets are now limited! - https://events.humanitix.com/connecting-for-change-conference

Hosted in partnership with New Zealand Council Of Christian Social Services

21/06/2026

Expressions of Interest: Executive Officer – Community Networks Aotearoa

Are you a values-driven leader with a passion for strengthening communities across Aotearoa New Zealand?

Community Networks Aotearoa (CNA) is seeking an experienced and strategic Executive Officer to lead our national organisation and champion the vital role community networks play in creating connected, resilient, and thriving communities.

Based in Wellington, this full-time role offers a unique opportunity to provide organisational leadership, build and nurture influential relationships, advocate for the community sector, and support a diverse network of members across the country.

We're looking for an accomplished leader with experience in:

• Organisational management and governance support
• Advocacy and public policy engagement
• Stakeholder and relationship management
• The not-for-profit and community sector

You will bring:

• Strong leadership and strategic thinking skills
• Excellent communication and advocacy experience
• A collaborative and relationship-focused approach
• Knowledge of the community and not-for-profit sector
• A commitment to equity, collective impact, and community-led development
• A strong understanding of, and commitment to, Te Tiriti o Waitangi

This is an opportunity to make a meaningful contribution at a national level while supporting the organisations and people who strengthen local communities every day.

We are sharing this opportunity with our members and networks in the first instance and encourage you to circulate it to suitably qualified candidates who are passionate about strengthening communities across Aotearoa New Zealand.

Position Details:

Location: Wellington
Salary: $110,000 per annum
Hours: Full-time

Expressions of Interest: Please send your CV and cover letter to CNA Chair, Holly Snape JP, at [email protected] by 4.00pm, Monday 29 June 2026.

14/06/2026

Free Webinar: What’s Changed for Charities in Budget 2026?

Budget 2026 includes several changes that could impact charities and not-for-profits across Aotearoa. Join Steven Moe for a practical discussion on what’s changed, what it means for your organisation, and how you can prepare for what comes next.

The session will explore the latest Budget announcements and their implications for the sector.

🗓 Tuesday 16 June (tomorrow!)
⏰ 12:00pm–1:00pm
💻 Online
🎟 Free to attend

Hosted by: Parry Field Lawyers

Join Steven Moe for this free webinar discussing the changes in Budget 2026, their implications for charities in Aotearoa New Zealand.

12/06/2026

🚨Emergency Mobile Alert test this Sunday.

A nationwide test of New Zealand's Emergency Mobile Alert system will be sent to capable mobile phones between 6pm and 7pm this Sunday. The alert will make a loud sound and vibrate, even if your phone is on silent.

The annual test helps ensure the system is working and reminds people what to expect during a real emergency. Emergency Mobile Alerts are used to warn people about serious threats such as tsunamis, severe weather, fires, and other risks to life.

A few things to know:

✅ You do not need to sign up.
✅ If your phone is compatible, you'll receive the alert automatically.
✅ You may receive it even if your phone is on silent or Do Not Disturb.
✅ It is only a test.

Take it as a good reminder to check that your whānau, workplace, and community know how they'll stay informed during an emergency.

Via: RNZ

Explainer: How do emergency phone alerts work, and why should we pay attention?