Presentation by David Thompson to uӠɑ Auckland Network general meeting Friday 3rd July 2026

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uӠɑ Auckland Network Levy Query

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Thank you for your question regarding the uӠɑ Auckland Network annual levy. I appreciate the opportunity to clarify why the levy exists and how it directly supports all 28 Auckland uӠɑs, including your own.

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Why the Network levy is necessary

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The Auckland Network operates as the shared infrastructure that enables every local uӠɑ to function more smoothly and stay connected. Although each uӠɑ is independent, we can rely on the Network for services that no single group could realistically provide on its own.

 

The levy contributes to the essential running costs of these shared services, including:

• Website hosting, maintenance, and upgrades for the uӠɑ.nz platform

• Database access and administration, including membership and contact systems

• Software licensing for communication, record‑keeping and event management

• Network administration, including meeting organisation, documentation and compliance

• Support for the annual Network EVENT, which benefits all member groups

• Shared resources, such as speaker lists, group‑support materials and policy templates

 

These are real, ongoing costs that must be met each year to keep the Network functioning effectively.

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A fair and transparent funding model

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At present, the levy is set at $1 per member, based on each uӠɑ’s membership as at 30 June of the previous year. Should it be deemed necessary to levy groups each year, this amount is set and agreed upon at the preceding AGM.
 

This ensures:

• Fairness — larger uӠɑs contribute proportionally more; smaller uӠɑs pay less

• Predictability — each group knows exactly how its levy is calculated

• Sustainability — the Network can plan and budget responsibly

 

This model was agreed collectively by the Network in a clause within its Purpose and Policies document and has been used when required.

 

How your uӠɑ benefits

 

Every uӠɑ receives value from the Network, whether directly or indirectly. These benefits include:

• Access to a city‑wide community of uӠɑs for collaboration and support

• A central communication hub that keeps all groups informed

• Shared problem‑solving on issues such as governance, technology and member engagement

• Regional visibility, helping attract new members

• Support for committee roles, including training, templates and guidance

• The ability to participate in Network‑wide events, initiatives and shared resources

 

Even if your uӠɑ does not use every service every year, the Network remains in place as a safety net and support structure whenever needed.

 

Why the levy matters now

 

As the number of Auckland uӠɑs has grown, so have the administrative and technical demands.
 

Without the levy:

• The Network could not maintain the systems and services that all groups rely on

• Costs would fall unevenly on a small number of volunteers

• The quality and consistency of support across Auckland would decline

 

The levy ensures that the Network remains strong, stable and future‑proofed for all member groups.

 

In summary

 

The levy is not a fee for optional extras — it is a shared contribution that keeps the Auckland uӠɑ community functioning.
 

It ensures fairness, sustainability and continuity, and it allows every uӠɑ to benefit from resources and support that would otherwise be unavailable or unaffordable.

 

We value your participation in the Network and hope this explanation clarifies the purpose and importance of the levy.
 

If your committee would like further detail or wishes to discuss this in person, we are very happy to do so.

 

uӠɑ Auckland Network Committee

David Thompson (President)