The Aotea / Great Barrier Local Board Grants Programme 2025/2026 provides community and capital grants to support initiatives that strengthen the island community. Funding ranges up to $25,000 for local projects and $50,000 for capital projects, prioritizing community wellbeing, climate resilience, zero-waste practices, and mana whenua prosperity. Applicants must demonstrate alignment with the Local Board Plan outcomes and ensure facilities are publicly accessible.

Programme Overview

The Aotea / Great Barrier Local Board Grants Programme aims to support projects that enhance the sustainability, wellbeing, and resilience of the island community.

The programme offers:

Local Grants – Funding up to $25,000 for community initiatives
Capital Grants – Funding up to $50,000 for creating or improving public-use facilities and infrastructure

Objectives

Projects are evaluated based on their contribution to:

Engaged and thriving mana whenua
Self-sufficient and prosperous community
Strong and adaptable economy
Treasured and enriched whenua (land)
Clean and secure wai (water)
Abundant and protected moana (sea)
Celebrated and preserved rangi-nui (sky)
Safe transport network
Fit-for-purpose island infrastructure
Sustainable community facilities
Overall wellbeing of the people

Priority Considerations

Higher priority is given to projects that:

Protect and enhance resident wellbeing
Promote zero-waste practices
Improve community resilience to climate change
Support mana whenua prosperity

Lower priority is given to:

Activities inconsistent with the Local Board Plan
Groups not based on Aotea / Great Barrier Island unless there is a direct benefit to the community
Insurance costs unless there is demonstrated high need

Funding Details

Local Grants

Up to $25,000 per project
Supports contestable and discretionary community initiatives

Capital Grants

Up to $50,000 per project
Supports creation or improvement of public-use capital assets such as:
- Buildings, structures, and equipment
- Infrastructure upgrades, plant, and services
- Alternative power systems and low-energy appliances
- Rainwater collection and safe drinking water systems
- Septic and sewage system upgrades

Applicants must provide evidence of community use over the last 12 months or justify if the facility was not operating during that period.

Who Is Eligible?

Community groups based on Aotea / Great Barrier Island
Projects must align with the Local Board Plan outcomes
Groups must be able to hold insurance for funded assets
Required building or resource consents must be secured before funds are released (advance funding may be requested for this)

Additional Considerations

Previously funded projects must be completed and fully accounted for before new applications, unless justified
The financial position of the group will be considered, especially if substantial cash assets are available but not designated for the project
Paid project management support may be included in funding requests

How to Apply / How It Works

Prepare Your Project Proposal – Ensure clear alignment with Local Board Plan outcomes
Determine Funding Type – Apply for Local Grant (≤$25,000) or Capital Grant (≤$50,000)
Document Facility Use – Provide evidence that the facility is publicly accessible and has been used, if applicable
Include Insurance and Consents – Confirm insurance coverage and building/resource consents; request advance funding if needed
Submit Application – Complete the official application process with supporting documentation
Assessment – Applications evaluated based on alignment with Local Board objectives, priority criteria, and financial management
Grant Award and Reporting – Funds are released after approvals; previous project accountability is required for additional funding

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Failing to demonstrate alignment with Local Board Plan outcomes
Submitting projects without evidence of public use or operational readiness
Ignoring insurance or consent requirements
Applying for funding for previously funded projects that are not fully accounted for
Overlooking the group’s financial position and available cash reserves

Why It Matters

The programme ensures that community-driven initiatives strengthen and sustain life on Aotea / Great Barrier Island. By funding projects that enhance wellbeing, resilience, and sustainability, the Local Board supports:

Thriving local culture and community cohesion
Protection of natural resources and infrastructure
Innovation in sustainable community practices
Opportunities for mana whenua engagement and prosperity

FAQs

1. What types of grants are available?

Local Grants up to $25,000 and Capital Grants up to $50,000.

2. Who can apply?

Community groups based on Aotea / Great Barrier Island that align with Local Board Plan objectives.

3. What projects are prioritized?

Projects enhancing wellbeing, climate resilience, zero-waste practices, and supporting mana whenua.

4. Can I apply for insurance or project management costs?

Yes, if high need is demonstrated for insurance; project management costs can be included in the funding request.

5. Are previously funded projects eligible for additional grants?

Only if the previous project is fully completed and accounted for, unless justified and agreed by the Board.

6. Are there any restrictions on applicants outside the island?

Yes, lower priority is given unless there is a significant or direct benefit to the Aotea / Great Barrier community.

7. What documentation is required for capital projects?

Evidence of public use, insurance coverage, and any required building or resource consents.

Conclusion

The Aotea / Great Barrier Local Board Grants Programme 2025/2026 empowers community groups to implement projects that strengthen island life, protect natural resources, and foster sustainable community development. By aligning initiatives with the Local Board Plan outcomes, applicants can secure funding for impactful community or capital projects that enhance wellbeing, resilience, and prosperity on Aotea / Great Barrier Island.