Accreditation
COAT accreditation is not a single standard — it is a journey. Organisations are assessed at one of four tiers, each building on the last. Start where you are. Grow from there.
Minimum standard
Legal compliance and core governance basics. Your organisation is registered, constituted, and meeting its fundamental obligations under New Zealand law.
56 assessment questions · 45 mandatory
Suitable for Newly established churches, small community organisations, and charities just getting their governance in order.
Organised practice
Policies are documented, governance is structured, and accountability mechanisms are in place. You have the foundations in writing.
77 assessment questions · 53 mandatory
Suitable for Established churches, camps and trusts with active boards and documented processes.
Developed practice
Actively reviewed policies, an integrated governance culture, safeguarding training and ongoing leader development. Governance is a living practice, not a filing cabinet.
90 assessment questions · 54 mandatory
Suitable for Organisations with staff, significant programmes, or public-facing services.
Exemplary governance
Independently reviewed, benchmarked against national excellence, and leading the sector. Platinum organisations are a model for others.
111 assessment questions · 54 mandatory
Suitable for Larger charities, multi-site organisations, or those seeking the highest level of public trust.
Question counts are taken directly from the live assessment in COAT Connect and are kept in step with it.