Strengthening community through music and capability: The Kauri Choir story

By Eva Chen, ANCAD

Kauri Choir Inc. is a community organisation that supports Chinese seniors in North Auckland. The choir brings people together through singing, dancing, and performing at community events. These activities help seniors stay active, connected, and proud of their culture.

In 2025, Kauri Choir participated in the ANCAD Community Accounting Programme. Before this, the choir faced some challenges. The organisation was growing, but many committee members are Mandarin-speaking seniors, so language was sometimes a barrier when preparing documents. The group wanted to improve their funding application, understand compliance requirements, and plan for long-term sustainability.

Through ANCAD, the choir received support from Chartered Accountant mentors and university accounting students. The programme lasted six weeks and included structured sessions and meetings.

The support helped the choir improve its understanding of the New Zealand funding system. Importantly, much of the support was delivered in Mandarin, which made it easier for committee members to understand and participate confidently.

After completing the programme, Kauri Choir became more organised and confident. Financial processes are now clearer and more transparent. Committee members feel more comfortable discussing financial plans and making decisions. The choir has also expanded its community activities, including performing at retirement villages and organising larger celebrations for Chinese New Year.

With stronger governance and financial systems, Kauri Choir is now better prepared for future growth. The organisation can plan events more carefully, work with partners more professionally, and explore funding opportunities.

By strengthening its internal systems, Kauri Choir can continue supporting seniors and building stronger connections within the wider Auckland community.