Applications are now open for two key funding opportunities designed to support te reo Māori initiatives and water-related projects in the Whakatāne District.
The first fund, the Reorua Contestable Fund, supports events, projects and activities that encourage and uplift te reo Māori in everyday life. Up to $13,000 is available to support initiatives that help make te reo Māori more visible, spoken and valued. Individuals and organisations are welcome to apply.
“Whakatāne District Council is committed to celebrating and supporting the growth of te reo Māori across our rohe. We are proud to have two of our town centres recognised as Reorua townships, Whakatāne in 2023, and Murupara in 2024,” the Council said in a statement.
The second fund, the Te Pūaha – Waterways and Marine Environment Fund is aimed at projects, activities and programmes that make the most of the district’s rivers, streams, beaches and coastal waters. With $40,000 available, this fund supports a wide range of initiatives, from educational projects and safety programmes to water sports and environmental conservation efforts, all designed to enhance community wellbeing and protect our natural environment. Applications are welcome from individuals or organisations, with options to apply under the General or Scholarship fund streams.
Council Manager Community Partnerships, Frank Begley, highlighted the value these funds bring to the district.
“These funds are about empowering our community to lead meaningful projects that reflect who we are and where we live. Whether it’s helping te reo Māori thrive in everyday life, or supporting safe, sustainable use of our waterways and moana, we want to back ideas that create lasting value for our district,” he said.
Anyone interested in applying for either or both of these funds can find out more here: community grants page.
Applications close on Sunday, 13 July.
