How to start a club

Clubs are defined as groups who aim to provide safe, inclusive, and positive experiences on campus, and who want to grow a community within an interest or commonality - such as a culture, religion, academic interests, or hobbies.

Student Groups distinguishes campaigns from clubs, as a campaign is an effort to create awareness for a cause, and an organized course of action to achieve an end goal. Campaigns will not be considered eligible for clubs registration as the kaupapa between the two differ. Student Groups are able to assist campaigns with room bookings, expo attendance, and equipment loans under a Memorandum of Understanding. If you want to start a campaign on campus, please reach out to studentgroups@auckland.ac.nz as we can still assist within a different capacity.

In order in order to become a recognised student group on campus, you need to complete a Statement of Purpose form to outline how you intend on contributing to the University community. You will also need to have at least 30 currently enrolled student members. Above this initial 30 members, 70% of additional members will need to be current students at the University of Auckland, or alumni within the three previous years, all with valid Student ID numbers.

There will be one opportunity to apply in 2025. During this time, the student body may be consulted on the proposed group. It is important to note that this application process is competitive, and not all applications will be successful.

There are four stages to this process:

1. During a period of application, complete a Statement of Purpose. Describe the group's purpose, planned activities, and include a list of members with student ID numbers.

1.1 What would be the purpose of your group? Ensure you are thinking about sustainability of the club, and positive impacts on the student community.

1.2 Do other similar groups currently exist within the University? How does your proposed group differ?

1.3 What kind of activities do you imagine happening over the year?

2. Following this, the Club Support Committee will review your application. AUSA may consult with students during this period. The committee will consider the new group criteria and get back to you within the required timeframe.

3. If approved, you will be asked to submit a series of documents within three weeks, including contact details, membership fees, a constitution, Annual General Meeting minutes, proof of bank account (plus two signatories), and acknowledgement of policy protocol and rules. If your application is not approved, the committee will provide the group with feedback.

4. Once documents are submitted, the group is considered to be a recognised student group, and will have access to all group resources. However, if you fail to submit the required documents within the agreed timeframe, the group won't be recognised.

Being recognised by the University allows your group to:

• Book rooms and hold events on campus.
• Apply for grants.
• Book equipment like barbecues and tables for your on-campus events.
• Have a stall during Clubs Expo.
• Get a listing on the University website.
• Access manuals, training, development and support.
• Be eligible for Club Awards.
• All the support and advice you need to run a successful organisation.