Deadline: 31-Oct-2026
The Stewart Island / Rakiura Grant Program is a community funding initiative by the Southland District Council that provides up to $4,514 per year to support local not-for-profit and community groups. It funds projects that improve social, cultural, environmental, and economic wellbeing in alignment with the Community Board Plan, with a focus on community-led development and long-term sustainability.
What Is the Stewart Island / Rakiura Grant Program?
The Stewart Island / Rakiura Grant Program is part of the Southland District Council’s Community Partnership Fund.
It enables local community-led decision-making by providing funding for projects that address the unique needs, aspirations, and long-term development goals of Stewart Island / Rakiura.
The programme prioritises initiatives that improve community wellbeing, strengthen infrastructure, support environmental protection, and encourage long-term sustainability.
Purpose of the Grant
The fund is designed to:
Support local community-led development
Enable projects that benefit Stewart Island / Rakiura residents
Strengthen social, cultural, economic, and environmental outcomes
Support long-term planning and resilience for the island community
Encourage collaboration and community participation
Funding Information
Total annual fund available: $4,514
Maximum funding per project: Up to 50% of total project costs
Co-funding from other sources is encouraged
Eligible Applicants
Applications are open to:
Not-for-profit community groups
Incorporated organisations
Informal community groups (must have a bank account in the group’s name)
Not eligible:
Individuals
Eligible Projects
Projects must align with the Stewart Island / Rakiura Community Board Plan.
Community Development Projects
Initiatives that strengthen local social connections
Community events and activities
Projects that improve wellbeing and participation
Infrastructure and Facilities
Small-scale community infrastructure improvements
Projects supporting fit-for-purpose, sustainable infrastructure
Shared community spaces and facilities
Environmental and Cultural Projects
Kaitiakitanga (environmental guardianship) initiatives
Conservation and biodiversity protection projects
Cultural heritage and community identity activities
Strategic Community Planning
Projects that support future planning
Research or consultation activities
Community resilience planning
Fund Restrictions
The following costs cannot be funded:
Ongoing operational or running costs
Salaries or general administration expenses
Individual benefits or personal expenses
Capital Works Requirements
If a project includes capital works:
Two quotes must be provided where possible
If only one quote is available, a clear explanation must be given
Community Board Plan Alignment
Priority is given to projects that align with these outcomes:
A community with fit-for-purpose, sustainable infrastructure
A cohesive and connected community, including part-time residents and ratepayers
Kaitiakitanga (guardianship) of the natural environment
A forward-planning community addressing unique island challenges
A strong community voice holding agencies accountable
Why This Grant Matters
This grant supports one of New Zealand’s most unique and remote communities by enabling locally driven solutions.
It helps:
Strengthen community resilience on Stewart Island / Rakiura
Protect the natural environment through kaitiakitanga
Improve shared infrastructure and spaces
Support cultural identity and community connection
Encourage long-term community planning
How to Apply
Applicants generally follow these steps:
Identify a community need aligned with the Community Board Plan
Design a project with social, cultural, environmental, or economic benefits
Prepare a budget showing at least 50% co-funding
Obtain quotes for capital works if required
Confirm eligibility as a community group with a bank account
Submit the application to Southland District Council
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applying as an individual
Requesting funding for operational expenses
Not aligning with Community Board Plan outcomes
Missing required quotes for capital works
Not demonstrating community benefit
Tips for a Strong Application
Clearly show community benefit for Stewart Island / Rakiura
Align with Community Board priorities
Demonstrate local involvement and support
Include realistic budgeting and co-funding
Highlight environmental and cultural impact
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Stewart Island / Rakiura Grant Program?
It is a local funding programme supporting community projects that benefit Stewart Island / Rakiura under Southland District Council’s Community Partnership Fund.
How much funding is available?
The total annual fund is $4,514, with up to 50% of project costs covered.
Who can apply?
Not-for-profit community groups, including informal groups with a bank account. Individuals are not eligible.
Can funding be used for operational costs?
No, operational and running costs are not eligible.
Are capital works allowed?
Yes, but two quotes are required where possible or an explanation must be provided.
What types of projects are supported?
Community development, infrastructure improvements, environmental protection, cultural initiatives, and planning activities aligned with local priorities.
Conclusion
The Stewart Island / Rakiura Grant Program empowers local community groups to deliver small but meaningful projects that improve wellbeing, protect the environment, and strengthen long-term resilience. By supporting community-led development, it ensures that local priorities and island-specific needs guide sustainable growth and collective progress.
For more information, visit Southland District Council.