Deadline: 20-Mar-2026

The Upper Harbour Local Board offers contestable funding to support community groups, organizations, and initiatives that benefit residents in the Upper Harbour area. The programme prioritizes projects aligned with community engagement, environment protection, arts, sports, youth development, cultural inclusion, and Māori empowerment.

Overview

The Upper Harbour Local Board Community Grants Programme 2025/2026 provides funding to support local initiatives that benefit residents of the Upper Harbour area. The programme is designed to strengthen community engagement, wellbeing, and inclusion while supporting arts, environment, heritage, sports, and recreation projects.

Focus Areas and Priorities

Key focus areas include:

• Arts and Culture: Promoting cultural diversity, inclusion for newcomers, and support for Māori voices and traditions.

• Community Development: Empowering families, supporting youth leadership and development, and advocating for accessibility and inclusion.

• Environment: Restoring and protecting the natural environment, promoting sustainable practices, and enhancing resilience to climate change.

• Events and Heritage: Supporting local community events and preserving heritage.

• Sports and Recreation: Encouraging participation and providing accessible facilities.

The programme aligns with the Upper Harbour Local Board Plan objectives across five thematic areas:

1. Our People: Building an inclusive, connected community with recognition of cultural identity and meaningful engagement with Māori.

2. Environment: Protecting biodiversity, practicing te ao Māori kaitiakitanga principles, and promoting sustainability.

3. Community: Ensuring accessible, well-maintained parks, sports, and community facilities for all abilities.

4. Our Places: Supporting infrastructure that facilitates neighborhood connectivity, accessible walking and cycling networks, and vibrant local destinations.

5. Economy: Strengthening local businesses, supporting a skilled workforce, and providing opportunities for rangatahi Māori and youth to gain sustainable employment skills.

Who is Eligible?

Eligible applicants include:

• Individuals seeking funding for community initiatives.

• Community groups and organizations based in the Upper Harbour area.

• Applicants with no legal structure seeking grants over $1,000 must either nominate an umbrella organization or provide a satisfactory accountability report.
  Initiatives must align with at least one of the Upper Harbour Local Board Plan objectives, with preference given to projects benefiting residents of the Upper Harbour Local Board area.

Funding Details

• Grant Amounts: Determined based on the merit, impact, and alignment of each application with programme objectives.

• Eligible Projects: Must demonstrate benefits to the local community and alignment with thematic priorities.

• Assessment Criteria: Emphasizes community impact, inclusivity, sustainability, and alignment with the Upper Harbour Local Board Plan.

Why This Grant Matters

• Strengthens community engagement and wellbeing across Upper Harbour.

• Supports cultural inclusion and empowerment of Māori and diverse communities.

• Promotes environmental protection and sustainability.

• Enhances youth leadership, development, and participation.

• Improves access to sports, recreation, and community facilities for all residents.

How to Apply / How the Programme Works

1. Proposal Preparation: Develop a project plan demonstrating alignment with Upper Harbour Local Board Plan objectives.

2. Eligibility Check: Confirm applicant type, legal status, and alignment with thematic priorities.

3. Application Submission: Complete the grant application, including project description, budget, and expected outcomes.

4. Assessment: Applications are evaluated on merit, impact, alignment with objectives, and community benefit.

5. Funding Decision: Grants awarded based on assessment results, available budget, and programme priorities.

6. Implementation and Reporting: Successful applicants deliver the project and provide accountability reports as required.

Common Mistakes and Tips

• Incomplete applications: Ensure all sections, budget, and required documents are submitted.

• Weak alignment: Clearly show how the project aligns with the Upper Harbour Local Board Plan objectives.

• Limited impact demonstration: Highlight measurable benefits to the local community.

• Lack of legal structure: Applicants seeking over $1,000 must have an umbrella organization or accountability plan.

• Neglecting inclusivity: Ensure projects are accessible and inclusive for all community members.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q1: Who can apply for funding? A1: Individuals, community groups, and organizations in the Upper Harbour area.
Q2: What is the maximum grant amount? A2: Amounts vary based on project merit and impact; projects over $1,000 by applicants with no legal structure require an umbrella organization.
Q3: What types of projects are eligible? A3: Projects aligned with arts, community development, environment, events, heritage, and sports and recreation.
Q4: Do projects need to benefit Upper Harbour residents? A4: Preference is given to projects located in or benefiting the Upper Harbour community.
Q5: Are youth-focused projects eligible? A5: Yes, projects supporting youth leadership, development, and wellbeing are encouraged.
Q6: Is Māori cultural inclusion a priority? A6: Yes, projects empowering Māori voices and traditions are highly encouraged.
Q7: How are applications assessed? A7: Based on community impact, alignment with objectives, sustainability, and merit of the proposal.

Conclusion

The Upper Harbour Local Board Community Grants Programme 2025/2026 provides vital support for initiatives that enhance community engagement, wellbeing, and inclusion. By funding projects in arts, environment, sports, and youth development, the programme strengthens local connections, promotes sustainability, and fosters a vibrant, inclusive community in Upper Harbour.

For more information, visit Auckland Council.