Over $157k in funding will support five organisations delivering projects to enhance community wellbeing across the region. Initiatives funded in this round focus on protecting the region’s cultural heritage, water safety, promoting local economic leadership, and providing inclusive, accessible community facilities.
Tairāwhiti Museum was the largest recipient this round, receiving just over $75k for urgent roof repairs to the Taonga Māori store and the Concourse Gallery. The work will help protect taonga and safeguard the spaces central to preserving the region’s rich heritage.
Swim for Life Tairāwhiti will receive $30k to deliver swimming lessons to more than 3,300 students across 47 schools in Tairāwhiti and the East Coast. The programme builds essential water skills and confidence, helping tamariki stay safe while enjoying the many water-based activities part of everyday life in the region.
Wellbeing Economy Alliance Aotearoa will also receive $30k to support a Local Economy for Public Good conference in Tairāwhiti. The conference will highlight Māori-led and local economic leadership and promote wellbeing-centred approaches aligned with He Rangitapu He Tohu Ora.
Other community funding recipients this month:
- Hatea-a-Rangi School - $11.5k towards the development of a Multi-Sports Astro Turf for the Tokomaru Bay community.
- Gisborne Riding for the Disabled - $10k towards buying a utility terrain vehicle for use across the region.
All applications aligned strongly with the Trust’s wellbeing framework, He Rangitapu He Tohu Ora.