Our Community Governance

Sociocratic Management Structure

Our Ariki community has joined forces with our neighbouring community Tūmanako Hope to ensure we have enough human resources to care for the community's needs. We use a sociocratic governance system that fosters equality, participation, and collaborative decision-making. Sociocracy helps create an inclusive, transparent, and effective governance structure.

What is Sociocracy?

Sociocracy, or dynamic governance, organises groups to ensure decisions are made by consent, with every member's voice heard. It emphasises cooperation and continuous improvement, contrasting traditional majority-rule systems.

Key Principles

  • Consent Decision-Making: Decisions require no significant objections, ensuring broad support.

  • Circle Structure: The community is divided into interlinked circles, each responsible for specific areas.

  • Double-Linking: Two members connect each circle to higher circles, facilitating communication.

  • Elected Roles: Roles are filled through consent-based elections and regularly reviewed.

  • Feedback Loops: Regular feedback helps the community adapt and improve.

How It Works

  • Circle Meetings: Regular meetings for discussion, decision-making, and policy review.

  • Operational and Governance Meetings: Separate meetings for daily tasks and long-term policies.

  • Role Elections: Members nominate and consent to roles, fostering trust.

  • Policy Forming and Implementation: Policies are discussed, consented to, and regularly reviewed.

Benefits

  • Inclusive Decision-Making: All voices are heard and valued.

  • Flexibility and Adaptability: Continuous improvement through feedback.

  • Clear Structure: Clear framework for decision-making and responsibilities.

Sociocracy offers a structured yet flexible approach to community governance, promoting equality, transparency, and effective participation.

Our Sociocratic Circles

  • Community Culture

  • Land and Natural Environment

  • Infrastructure & Utilities

  • Outreach and Development

  • Technology and Communication

  • Compliance

All circles lead back to a General Circle with representatives called focalisers from all circles.

As Ariki Estate is a Limited Liability Company we require legal directors, the directors of the company are below:

  • “No one is more passionate about wastewater than Di.”

    Introducing Diana, a dynamic new addition to the Ariki Estate Ltd. board! Diana brings a wealth of experience and qualifications, holding a degree in Engineering and a Diploma in Asset Management. She has an impressive track record as a Trustee on a charitable trust and has served as Treasurer and Secretary in various clubs and associations. She has also been a member of local council.

    Diana is passionate about community living, and her love for potluck dinners where everyone comes together is just the beginning. Every visit to the community fills her with joy as she witnesses continuous progress. With a strong belief in self-determination and service for the greater good, Diana embodies the wairua of Ariki Estate.

    She appreciates the vibrant community, where people love to dance and collaborate on projects. Diana thrives on using her skills both outdoors on the land and in the garden. Her motto, "If not now, when? If not me, who?" perfectly captures her proactive and dedicated attitude.

    Diana is committed to healthy water initiatives and creating opportunities for children to flourish. Her interest in becoming a director of Ariki Estate Limited is driven by a desire to implement best practices in Governance from similar projects and communities. Diana aims to template practical tools and planning methods that others can use, contributing her time, knowledge, and ideas freely.

  • “Joey is the best small-talker around, such a friendly guy.”

    We're excited to introduce Joe Swamy, a new director at Ariki Estate Ltd. Joe's diverse management experience includes roles as a procurement manager, lead organizer of the Earth Beat Festival, and committee member of the Theosophical Society. His strategic and fiscal decision-making skills, combined with his empathetic and analytical approach, make him a valuable asset to our team.

    Joe has been involved with Ariki Estate from the beginning and is committed to guiding the community towards a prosperous future. For Joe, Ariki Estate is more than just a home; it's a legacy he wants to build for his children. He believes in the vision of communal living and is eager to contribute to this transformative project.

    As a director, Joe aims to create a culture of inclusivity and integrity. He plans to introduce financial reporting and budgeting to ensure transparency and track progress. His strong community relationships will help address challenges and promote healing, fostering a resilient and cohesive environment.

    Joe's values—integrity, presence, honesty, and radical self-responsibility—guide his actions. He is passionate about creating transformational spaces for activities like yoga, meditation, and growing food, promoting health for mind, body, and soul. Joe's vision for Ariki Estate is a thriving example of communal living and growth.

  • Chad Carter

    “Chad is always finding the sunshine through the rain.”

    Introducing Chad Carter, a vibrant addition to the Ariki Estate Ltd. board. Chad loves the community's high-energy vibe, environmental care, and the collective goal of building an awesome community. His values are guided by "The Four Agreements": be impeccable with your word, don't take anything personally, don't make assumptions, and always do your best.

    Chad joined the community to leave a legacy, improve the land and water, and create a space to escape city life while being with like-minded people. With his experience in managing businesses and people, Chad is committed to ensuring Ariki Estate's vision is achieved.

    His qualifications include a BCOM degree in valuation and property management, 15 years as a business analyst, and directorship of multiple successful businesses. Chad excels in communication and multitasking and loves making people laugh and positively impacting their lives.

    As a director, Chad will contribute through finance, leadership, project management, and governance. He is emotionally and financially invested in Ariki Estate and is dedicated to its success, envisioning a thriving community for all.