Cultural organisations affiliated with the Goethe-Institut offer varied services, depending on the location:
- Cultural programming
- Information about Germany
- Maintenance of personal contacts
Affiliated cultural organisations are not German institutions, but rather independent institutions organized under New Zealand not-for-profit laws.
Their activities are based on the mission of enhancing the visible presence of German language and culture in the life of the cities in which they are located. There is close cooperation with the Goethe-Institut, which includes financial support, joint programming, and advice on cultural programming and language activities.