The Board of Blind Citizens NZ began working through mandatory changes required to the organisation’s Constitution some time ago. These changes are necessary to ensure Blind Citizens NZ is compliant with the Incorporated Societies Act 2022. This work is guided by Gibson Sheat Lawyers. This is the same law firm that worked with Blind Citizens NZ in 2019 when changes were made to the current Constitution.

An opportunity is taken with this Focus issue to share with readers, areas where changes must be made to Blind Citizens NZ’s Constitution. There will be opportunities for members, Branches and Networks to discuss proposed changes as these are worked through. In the meantime, we highlight areas that must be amended, or where new content is required. This includes:

• how someone ceases to be a member of Blind Citizens NZ i.e. resigning as a member (this is a new requirement);
• requirement for keeping Blind Citizens NZ’s register of members up-to-date;
• showing how a person becomes a member of Blind Citizens NZ, including a requirement that they must consent to be a member. This considers all membership categories i.e. Ordinary Member, Junior Member, Member-for-Life,  Associate Member, Honorary Life Member, and Affiliate Organisations;
• grounds for removing an ‘Officer” from their position (this is a new requirement);
• procedures for resolving disputes, including providing for how a complaint may be made;
• intervals between annual general meetings (this relates to the national AGM and Conference);
• the time and manner in which notices of general meetings and notices of motion must be notified (this refers to Special General Meetings).