There is a lot of information around to help you run your group or organisation effectively. Some will have been gathered to suit your own local area, some might be particularly relevant to your line of work.

Places to turn to include:

Your local Community Development Officer in your District or City Council
Your nearest Internal Affairs Community Advisor

CommunityNet Aotearoa: An Internet resource for community, with lots of information about starting and running a group, as well as community events, community jobs and links to other relevant Internet resources. Find it at http://www.community.net.nz/

Department of Internal Affairs - Community Development Resource Kit: A comprehensive resource which covers everything from community development philosophy, how to set up and run a community organisation, through to making submissions and running meetings. Find it at the Community Development Resource Kit section of the DIA website.

BIZ - Business Information Zone (formerly BizInfo): The Business Information Service for New Zealand. Most community groups operate as small businesses, and need some of the same skills. BIZ have offices all over the country - check in your phone book or ring 0800 42 49 46 for the local address. The website is at http://www.biz.org.nz/, where you'll find heaps of information on legislative requirements, free or low-cost courses to help you run your business, and lots more.