What does being a Board member involve?

As an incorporated society, Aracnation is governed by a volunteer Board. Board members provide strategic leadership, oversee the organisation's governance, and help shape our future. This means making decisions that support our mission, ensure the organisation is sustainable, and create a positive impact for our community.

Our Board brings together people with different skills, experiences, and perspectives. Working collaboratively, we help guide Aracnation's direction so we can continue creating opportunities for movement, creativity, joy, and connection through aerial arts.

The Board meets four times a year, along with an annual planning day to review our strategy and priorities. Board members should expect to contribute around six to eight days each year, including meeting preparation and occasional support between meetings.

Meetings are held in a hybrid format, allowing members to attend either in person or online. Reasonable expenses, such as travel (when applicable) and refreshments, are covered. We are also happy to discuss any adjustments that would support you to participate fully.

Who we'd love to hear from

We're looking for people who are passionate about our community and believe in the work Aracnation does. You don't need previous board experience—we value curiosity, a willingness to learn, and a commitment to contributing to our organisation.

We're particularly interested in people with experience or skills in areas such as governance, finance, fundraising, community development, cultural sector leadership, digital strategy, legal, IT or cyber security. We also welcome people with lived experience, strong community connections, or perspectives that can help strengthen and diversify our Board.

We're committed to building a Board that reflects the diversity of our community. We warmly encourage applications from People of the Global Majority, disabled people, neurodivergent people, LGBTQIA+ communities, and people of all ages and backgrounds.

‍ ‍‍How to apply

You can fill out our nomination form, send us an email to info@aracnation.co.nz with your CV and let us know you filled out the form.

We’ll get back to you within 5 working days after your application.

Board members responsibilities

While each Board member has a specific portfolio, all members share responsibility for the governance of the organisation. We work collaboratively, drawing on each other's skills and experience to support Aracnation's mission and long-term sustainability.

Chair

The Chair provides leadership to the Board and helps ensure it functions effectively. Responsibilities include:

• Leading Board meetings and the Annual General Meeting.

• Working with the Director to set meeting agendas and strategic priorities.

• Supporting effective decision-making and encouraging participation from all Board members.

• Helping the Board fulfil its governance responsibilities and comply with legal obligations.

• Providing leadership during strategic planning and organisational development.

• Acting as a key point of contact between the Board and the Director.

• Representing Aracnation at meetings, events, or with external stakeholders when appropriate.

• Fostering a positive, collaborative, and inclusive Board culture.

Treasurer

The Treasurer supports the Board in overseeing the financial health of the organisation. Responsibilities include:

• Monitoring the organisation's financial position and sustainability.

• Reviewing financial reports and presenting key financial information to the Board.

• Working with the Director and accountant/bookkeeper to oversee budgets and financial planning.

• Helping ensure appropriate financial systems, controls, and policies are in place.

• Supporting the preparation and presentation of the annual financial statements.

• Assisting the Board to make informed financial decisions.

• Ensuring the organisation meets its financial governance and reporting obligations.

• Contributing to strategic planning with a focus on long-term financial sustainability.

Secretary

The Secretary works alongside the Chair and Treasurer helping with board administration, and membership and governance records. Responsibilities include:

• Preparing and distributing meeting agendas (with the Chair).

• Taking or coordinating meeting minutes.

• Maintaining governance records and key documents.

• Supporting good governance and compliance with the Incorporated Societies Act.

• Working closely with the Chair and Director to keep Board administration running smoothly.

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