About Us

Welcome to the New Zealand Society of Association Executives Inc. (NZSAE) — Te Hapori o ngā Kaiwhakahaere Hononga o Aotearoa. We are here to strengthen membership organisations in New Zealand, providing a dedicated home for association professionals across the motu.

Associations Matter: Your Community for Association Leadership.

Networking and Knowledge

Gain insights, skills, and support tailored to your role as an association professional — through events, learning circles, and shared experiences.

Connections That Matter

Build meaningful relationships with peers, boards, and suppliers for associations, and access the networks that help your organisation thrive.

New Zealand-Focused, Globally Aware

Tap into resources created for Kiwi associations while staying connected to international best practice.

You don’t have to lead alone — join a community that understands and supports you.

Join Us Today

Coming Events

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Digital Tools & Technology (AI tools and ethical use for associations)

02 October 2025

NZSAE Learning Circles are small-group professional development sessions designed for those working in membership organisations across Aotearoa. Each Circle focuses on a core domain of association management and creates a space to connect, learn, and share with others facing similar challenges. One of NZSAE’s five rotating Learning Circles, offering a complete view of association practice across the year.

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CAE December Exam Study Program

06 October 2025

The Certified Association Executive (CAE) designation is the pinnacle of excellence in association management. Recognised internationally, it is a symbol of leadership, expertise, and a deep commitment to advancing the association profession.

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Engagement, Events & Experience (Building your association’s brand voice)

16 October 2025

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Latest News

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The Top Three Challenges Facing Associations in 2025

15 September 2025

When we released the State of the Association Sector in New Zealand 2025, the results didn’t catch anyone off guard. The same three challenges came up time and time again from over 230 executives: Growing and recruiting members. Coping with the economic pressures your members are under. Demonstrating real, tangible value for the membership fee. Now, it’s one thing to nod along and agree these are familiar. It’s another to stop and ask the harder question: what are we actually doing about them?

When Was the Last Time You Tried to Join Your Own Association?

27 August 2025

As someone who leads an association, I recently tried joining two other membership organisations here in New Zealand. One was 20 days ago, the other 9. I filled out the online forms, hit submit, and waited. And I’m still waiting. No confirmation email. No welcome message. No follow-up. Just radio silence.

Beyond Benefits: Rethinking Revenue Generation for Associations

28 July 2025

Revenue generation is more than just selling sponsorships or memberships—it’s about creating real value. Whether it’s through sponsorship solutions, monetising communities, or leveraging data-driven insights, associations need to rethink their approach to financial sustainability. Here’s a fresh take on what works (and what doesn’t) when it comes to generating revenue.