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About us

Who we are

Doina – Community of Romanian Aucklanders Incorporated (Doina Inc.) is a charitable, apolitical, and non-profit organisation, created to support, connect, and represent Romanians in Auckland and across New Zealand.

The Society was founded in July 2000 by a group of Romanians living in Auckland and was officially incorporated on 7 September 2000. On 3 June 2025, Doina Inc. was officially re-registered under the Incorporated Societies Act 2022, under its current name.

  • Incorporation Number: 1071174

  • Charities Services Registration Number: CC44342


Legal status and charitable purpose

According to its updated Statute, Doina is a registered charitable entity under the Charities Act 2005, with the following main purposes:

  • promoting education by supporting the Romanian language and cultural traditions;

  • supporting Romanian immigrants in their integration process in New Zealand;

  • organising cultural, artistic, sporting, and social events;

  • promoting Romanian identity and values in Auckland and nationwide;

  • collaborating with other organisations in New Zealand and abroad.

Doina operates exclusively for charitable purposes, without any profit motive and without distributing income to its members.


Membership categories

According to the new Statute, membership is open to all individuals interested in supporting the Society's purposes.

1. Member (18+ years)
  • Person of Romanian origin, descent, or with ties to the community

  • Voting rights and participation in decision-making

  • Access to Society events and facilities

2. Junior Member (under 18 years)
  • No voting rights

  • Participation in community activities

  • Becomes eligible for full membership at age 18

3. Life Member
  • Honorary title granted by General Meeting vote for exceptional contributions

  • Full membership rights

  • Exempt from paying fees

4. Honorary Member
  • Honorary title for notable contributions

  • No voting rights and no financial obligations

The registration form is mandatory for all categories. For minors, it must be completed by a parent or legal guardian.


Governing Committee

The Society is governed by a Committee composed of at least 3 Officers elected at the General Meeting. They are responsible for the overall administration of the Society.

What is an Officer:

An Officer is someone who is either a member of the Committee or holds a position with significant influence over the Society’s operations (e.g., treasurer, executive secretary).

All Officers must be financial members, legally eligible, and must complete a declaration of eligibility.

Officers elected at the General Meeting of 4 May 2025:
  • President: Silvia Rosioru

  • Vice President: Călina Tătaru-Wise

  • Committee Members: Nicoleta Mureșan, Mihai Enache, Aurel Dumitrașcu


Why become a member
  • You gain voting rights in the General Meeting and can take part in important decisions

  • You can run for leadership roles or participate in project teams

  • You actively contribute to building a united and visible community

  • Only registered members are counted in funding applications and annual reports


Our commitments as a Society
  • Maintain an official Register, in line with legal requirements

  • Ensure transparency and adherence to the Statute

  • Organise cultural, educational, social, and sports activities

  • Support the integration of newcomers and preserve cultural identity

  • Build connections with other communities and organisations in NZ and internationally


Useful information for members
General Meeting
  • Held annually, with a notice sent at least 25 working days in advance

  • Only financial members may attend and vote

  • The committee is elected, activity and financial reports are presented, fees are set

  • Members may propose motions at least 10 working days before the meeting

Officer terms and elections
  • Officers are elected for a 1-year term during the General Meeting

  • Vacancies between meetings can be filled by Committee decision, subject to later ratification

  • Officers must meet legal eligibility criteria and submit formal declarations

Member rights and responsibilities
  • Members must keep their contact details up to date

  • Voting rights and activity access depend on fee payment

  • After 6 months without payment, a member becomes “non-financial”; after 12 months, membership may be terminated by the Committee

Dispute resolution
  • The Statute provides a clear, fair, and effective process for resolving internal conflicts

  • Mediation, hearings, or disciplinary panels may be used

  • All parties have the right to be heard and informed before any decision is made

Financial transparency
  • Financial year: 1 April – 31 March

  • The Committee manages funds and presents annual financial reports

  • All financial activities follow legal and statutory requirements


 

Among the objectives of Doina - Community of Romanian Aucklanders

Doina - Community of Romanian Aucklanders has the following key objectives, focusing on the development and strengthening of the Romanian community in Auckland and the promotion of Romanian cultural values:

Promotion of Culture and Identity::

  • Organizing exhibitions, artistic performances, and cultural events to highlight Romanian traditions and art.  
  • Encouraging participation in a Romanian folk dance group.  
  • Supporting and promoting a theater troupe to perform plays in Romanian, thus contributing to the promotion of culture through authentic performing arts.

Supporting and Promoting the Romanian Language:

  • Hosting radio broadcasts in Romanian to provide our members with a communication and information channel in their native language.
  • Organizing a Romanian library and reading sessions to strengthen communication skills and maintain a connection with the Romanian language.

Combating Discrimination and Creating an Inclusive Environment:

  • Educating members on the importance of diversity and mutual respect to ensure a safe and inclusive environment for everyone.

Cultural and Social Events:

  • Organizing art exhibitions, theater performances, and social gatherings to strengthen community bonds and celebrate the richness of Romanian culture.

Community Help and Support:

  • Providing resources and assistance to community members facing difficulties, ensuring that no one is left without support.

Collaborations and Cultural Exchanges:

  • Strengthening relationships with other organizations and communities to facilitate the exchange of ideas and experiences, contributing to mutual understanding.

The Doina Community aims to create a platform through which members can connect, grow, and promote Romanian culture and identity, while also providing community support to those in need. This effort contributes to the development of a united and active Romanian community in Auckland.