Latest news with #CreativeCommunitiesFund
Scoop
6 days ago
- Business
- Scoop
Council Grants & Community Funding Now Open - Let's Make Great Things Happen In Horowhenua
Horowhenua is full of people with great ideas and big hearts – and now's the time to bring those ideas to life. Round 1 of the 2025/2026 Council Grants and Community Funding is now open, and Horowhenua District Council is inviting local groups, clubs and organisations to apply for funding that helps support and strengthen our communities. From one-off community events and youth-led initiatives to creative arts, waste reduction, climate action projects and small facility upgrades, Council offers a range of funding opportunities to support the mahi that matters. Council Chief Executive Monique Davidson says this is an opportunity to support the people behind the good ideas already making a difference in Horowhenua. 'Every year, we see passionate people doing amazing things with the help of this funding. It might be a community garden, a local art project, or a small event that brings neighbours together. If you've got an idea that could make a difference, we'd love to help make it happen.' Grants currently open: Climate Action Fund - closes on 31 August 2025 Community Events and Programmes Fund - closes on 31 August 2025 Creative Communities Fund - closes on 10 September 2025 Operations and Small Assets Fund - closes on 31 August 2025 Horowhenua Rural Halls Fund - closes on 31 August 2025 Waste Minimisation Fund - closes on 31 August 2025 Shannon Community Development Trust - closes on 10 September 2025 Horowhenua Major Events Fund closes once fully allocated Youth Empowerment Fund open until 31 October 2025 Recipients of the Community Grants and Community Funding programme align with Council's priority to enhance health and wellbeing initiatives, as outlined in the Community Wellbeing Strategy 2024-2027. By hosting regular events and supporting local programmes, this funding actively promotes community health and wellbeing, ensuring that Horowhenua remains a place where people feel connected and supported. Drop-in sessions – Come and talk with us To make applying easier, Council is hosting a series of drop-in sessions across the district throughout August. These friendly, no-appointment-needed sessions are a great chance to talk with staff, ask questions, or get advice on your application. Wednesday 6 August 11am to 12.30pm Te Awahou Nieuwe Stroom, 92 Main Street, Foxton Monday 11 August 9.30am to 11am Te Takeretanga o Kura-hau-pō, 10 Bath Street, Levin Tuesday 12 August 1pm to 2pm Shannon Library, 62 Plimmer Terrace, Shannon Monday 11 August 9.30am to 11am Te Takeretanga o Kura-hau-pō, 10 Bath Street, Levin Tuesday 26 August 3pm to 4pm Te Takeretanga o Kura-hau-pō, 10 Bath Street, Levin Successful projects must begin after 1 November 2025. More information about the available funds, eligibility and how to apply can be found at,
Otago Daily Times
21-05-2025
- General
- Otago Daily Times
Works a testament to the community
Small-town Heriot is about to add new art to its growing range of public assets. Thanks to a dedicated group of locals, the old West Otago settlement's public domain and tennis courts are undergoing a significant transformation, proving community spirit and teamwork makes big things can happen — even in the smallest places. What started as a simple cleanup project has grown into a $25,000 community-led upgrade that has brought together residents, local businesses, the Lions Club, and Clutha District Council. The Heriot Domain upgrade, which began in early 2024, has already delivered a new tennis net, a modern, height-adjustable basketball hoop, a concrete rebound wall for ball sports, and picnic facilities. Regular maintenance such as lawn mowing and painting has also helped keep the site prim and lively. The project has been funded in part by the West Otago Community Board, which approved $12,765 from the Our Place West Otago fund in April. Of that, about $12,700 has already been spent. The improvements are already paying off. The courts are being regularly used by local families and sports enthusiasts, and more work is scheduled for this autumn, including a second tennis net, seating, and court line painting. A colourful new addition is also on the way. Local artist Kath Garret is creating a mural featuring a native forest and bird scene, backed by a $1500 grant from the council. Community group spokeswoman Cindy Harliwich says the project has been a real team effort. "A local person suggested we clean up the old tennis court and that led to a wider conversation about making it more multi-use," she said. "There are playgrounds for young children ... we wanted more for older kids." Mrs Harliwich credits the strong community involvement for the project's success. "Everyone's chipped in, whether it's been their time, expertise, or equipment. "Businesses like Sheds and Barns donated work and materials just because they're part of the community." She also praised the support from the council and its local representatives. "They've kept us on track and always asked what we need. "It really shows how much can happen when people care about where they live." With several funding options still available, including the Creative Communities Fund and remaining council reserves, Heriot may see even more upgrades soon. "This is a great example of the community coming together and using the available resources the way they're intended," West Otago Ward Cr John Herbert said. "Full credit to the council for their support ... [but] you've got to have individuals in the community like Cindy and Warren Harliwich to help drive it. "They and others have done that and they've all done a great job."
