National Annual General Meeting held at the Devon Hotel, New Plymouth, 22 March 2025
A brief report on the meeting.
The formal AGM was the reason for members to be in New Plymouth but it was the informal networking that made this a very valuable meeting. The chatting over the dinner table of what works for different branches with varying dynamics from remote members, very small branches, to a group of over 150, the sharing of ideas was invaluable. We were treated to a fantastic venue, great food, comfortable room, and awesome camaraderie. As well as the opportunity of some shoulder tapping for Founders ‘Good News Stories’.
The AGM itself was a swift business with reports kept short and to the point. After the formalities of attendees and apologies, the Chair read his report noting that the focus is on members and friends having fun while discovering their past. The past year of reducing administration for the branches while maintaining more accountability of all members funds. Ray encouraged members to contribute stories for the new website. Executive members were thanked for their efforts over the year.
Treasurers Financial Report as previously circulated was adopted. Research grants of $11600 and also Auckland branch made a grant for work on Historical Buildings. Subscriptions for the 2025 and 2026 years were set at $25 per member. $15 of this is retained by the National office and $10 to be held within each branch account. The 2025 account will have a delayed payment due to the new constitution accounting date. The 2026 subscription is due in January. Honorarium were set for four officers at $1000 each to acknowledge their work for the last year. Those Associate Members as at 31 December 2024 were accepted as full members of the Society. This remit was necessary as the Charities Services Act that instigated the new Constitution only allowed for Members and non-members.
The new website was enthusiastically accepted with the Executive to discuss how this will be managed going forward.
The Chair advised that the Membership Secretary and Treasurer were investigating the use of ‘Hello Clubs’ membership database.
The Henderson trophy for the number of new members was awarded to Hawkes Bay with the Chair paying particular acknowledgement to Richard Bayley, by whose efforts have won this award all 12 years it has been presented.
The annual AGM venue is to be discussed further within the Executive.
Following the AGM members were treated to an amazing bus trip, with Judith giving us a very informative commentary as we travelled to various points of interest within the New Plymouth City. Including an insightful look at St Mary’s restoration and the delightful High Tea at the Teahouse in Pukekura Park. Truly a highlight of the weekend.
Many thanks to the wonderful New Plymouth members for their hospitality..
