Governance New Zealand Inc is the New Zealand Division of The Chartered Governance Institute [formerly The Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators (ICSA)] and was formed in 1937. As the premier professional association in New Zealand with a sole focus on the practice of governance, we are dedicated to providing leadership in the areas of governance, compliance and risk management. Governance New Zealand members are well-known for their high ethical standards, excellence in business leadership and influence as governance professionals. At Governance New Zealand, we support our members to build successful governance careers through ongoing professional development, resources, products and services and promotion of the Chartered Secretary designation. Our Professional Education Programme is unrivalled in its breadth and depth of coverage, and sets the standard for entry to the profession as well as to The Chartered Governance Institute. The programme provides comprehensive knowledge and skills in the essential elements of good governance principles, and is valuable preparation for any professional aspiring to a senior career in governance, compliance and risk management.
Our Vision
Good governance makes great organisations
Being the professional home for all governance professionals; senior executives, company secretaries and directors involved in efficient and effective governance, compliance and risk management.
Our Mission
To develop excellence in governance professionals
To be the foremost body in New Zealand setting governance standards, and enhancing the professional skills and ethics of members and governance professionals to promote efficient and effective corporate management and governance.
About Women on Boards
Women on Boards is a recently acquired business unit of Governance NZ. It was established to promote and advocate for greater gender diversity at the executive and board level in the belief that boards of companies across all sectors benefit from the diversity that a gender-balanced board brings.
Visit our LinkedIn page to find out more.
Our Vision
Gender equality in governance
Our Mission
Inspire, educate, connect and support all women in their governance journey

Julie Hardaker
Be part of our global eCommunity
Open to all corporate governance professionals; whether you’re an existing member or not – join us! Be part of the conversation. Be part of the community.