Clubs New Zealand launches 2026 Election Manifesto

28 August 2026

Clubs New Zealand has today released its 2026 Election Manifesto, calling on all political parties to recognise community clubs as an important part of New Zealand's social infrastructure.

The manifesto, Strong Clubs, Strong Communities, sets out five priorities for the next Government.

1. Modernise alcohol licensing settings for community clubs
2. Secure the future of community gaming
3. Protect not-for-profit clubs and their tax status
4. Make volunteer governance sustainable
5. Develop a national community club and volunteer strategy

Clubs New Zealand Chief Executive Lucy Waterreus says community clubs provide much more than hospitality. 

"Clubs are places where people connect, volunteer, participate in sport and recreation, support local causes and build lasting community relationships.

"They are not-for-profit, largely governed by volunteers, and any surpluses are reinvested into facilities, activities and services for members and their communities.

"However, many of the laws and regulatory settings affecting clubs do not reflect how modern community clubs operate. Increasing compliance requirements, pressure on volunteers and uncertainty around future funding are making it harder for clubs to focus on serving their communities."

The manifesto calls for practical changes, including reform of alcohol licensing rules affecting club visitors, better alignment of financial reporting requirements, protection of appropriate tax settings for genuine not-for-profit clubs, and greater support for volunteer governance.

It also calls for a national strategy focused on the long-term sustainability of community clubs and volunteering.

"New Zealand's clubs serve around 300,000 people in communities across the country, says Ms Waterreus.

"We want to work constructively with all political parties to ensure clubs remain strong, sustainable and relevant for future generations.

"When clubs thrive, communities thrive."

The full Clubs New Zealand 2026 Election Manifesto can be found here.

ENDS

For media enquiries, contact: lucy@clubsnz.com

Clubs New Zealand National Office 0800 425 827

www.clubsnz.org.nz

Clubs New Zealand Incorporated (Clubs New Zealand) is a not-for-profit, member led association representing more than 300 clubs around the country including Community Clubs, Cosmopolitan Clubs, Workingmen’s Club, Sports Clubs, and Returned Servicemen’s Associations (RSAs).  Collectively our clubs employ more than 3,000 people and are a home away from home to over 300,000 club members.  To find out more visit www.clubsnz.org.nz