A Sustainable Future for Your Trust’s Legacy
13 February, 2026

Providing a practical solution for local Societies and Charities. 

Operating a trust or society in the Top of the South has become increasingly challenging. Between shifting legislative requirements, the difficulty of recruiting new trustees, and increasing administrative expectations, many local committees are looking for a better way forward. 

At Top of the South Community Foundation (TSCF), we offer a simple, powerful, and practical way to ensure your mission continues without the burden of independent administration. 

Navigating the 2026 Legislative Changes 

The upcoming deadline for the Incorporated Societies Act is a natural turning point for many organisations. It is an opportunity to review how your mission can best be protected for the long term. 

Trust Transfer (or resettlement) allows you to wind up the paperwork of your current structure while maintaining the original purpose, name, and history of your Trust. We take care of the legal and reporting requirements, so your impact remains focused on the community. 

How a Trust Transfer Works 

We simplify the transition through a clear, professional process: 

  • Establish a Named Fund: Your organisation sets up a dedicated fund within the Foundation. 
  • Define Your Purpose: You set the goals for the fund, ensuring they align with your original mission. 
  • Create a Permanent Stream: Grants are distributed every year, forever, to the causes you are passionate about. 
  • Scale and Efficiency: You benefit from our institutional investment rates and low-cost structure, ensuring your generosity goes further. 

A Leadership Story: Employment Support 

In April 2024, Employment Support recognised that the changing landscape required a new approach. Rather than waiting for the 2026 deadline, they acted as an "Early Adopter," choosing to resettle their trust into a Named Fund with TSCF. 

"Transferring our Trust has given us total peace of mind that our legacy is secure and professionally managed. We can now focus on our mission while the Foundation handles the hard work of compliance." — Employment Support 

By future-proofing early, they successfully navigated the transition and secured their community impact well ahead of the rush. 

Why Partner with Us? 

As a cornerstone organisation in our region, we provide: 

  • Professional Stewardship: Funds are managed by expert advisors to ensure permanent growth. 
  • Complete Administration: We handle all legal, IRD, and reporting requirements. 
  • Local Governance: Benefit from our Board of Trustees’ deep connection to the Top of the South. 

Start a Confidential Conversation 

If you would like to explore how a Trust Transfer could work for your organisation, we invite you to reach out for a confidential discussion. 

Chelsea Routhan | Chief Executive 027 462 1412 | 

[email protected] 

Securing a vibrant future for our region: Your legacy, our governance, forever. 

Entrust your legacy to us, and we will ensure your generosity continues to reach the heart of our community, year after year. 

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Make a lasting difference

Act now to begin building your legacy through Top of the South Community Foundation
Give Where you live
© Top of the South Community Foundation 2026
Photos from Nelsontasman.nzOnly Marlborough and Unsplash.
Made with ♥️ by Avoca in Nelson, New Zealand

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