Apply now for Biodiversity Grant Program (New Zealand)

The Ashburton District Council Biodiversity Grant Scheme provides up to $7,500 per project to support biodiversity protection and restoration within the Ashburton District, New Zealand. Grants cover up to 50% of total project costs and are awarded through two annual funding rounds in February and August. Eligible applicants must be based in the district and implement projects within the boundaries between the Rakitata (Rangitata) and Rakaia Rivers.

What Is the Biodiversity Grant Scheme?

The Biodiversity Grant Scheme is a local environmental funding program offered by the Ashburton District Council to support community-led biodiversity projects.

The scheme funds initiatives that:

• Protect native ecosystems

• Maintain biodiversity values

• Restore degraded habitats

• Enhance natural environments

All funded projects must take place within the Ashburton District boundaries, specifically between the Rakitata (Rangitata) River and the Rakaia River.

Why Biodiversity Matters in Ashburton District

Ashburton District is rich in native biodiversity and ecological landscapes that form part of the region’s natural identity.

Protecting biodiversity ensures:

• Survival of native plant and animal species

• Maintenance of ecological processes

• Improved ecosystem resilience

• Long-term environmental sustainability

The Council recognises biodiversity protection as a shared responsibility between local government and the community. The grant scheme supports collective action for present and future generations.

Grant Amount and Funding Structure

Maximum Grant Available

• Up to $7,500 per project

Co-Funding Requirement

• Grant cannot exceed 50% of total project cost

Applicants must contribute at least 50% of the project cost.

What Counts as Applicant Contribution?

The applicant’s share may include:

• Volunteer labour

• Donated goods

• Gifted services

• Direct financial contributions

Volunteer time must be calculated using the minimum wage applicable at the time of application.

Funding Rounds and Timeline

The scheme operates through two contestable application rounds each financial year:

• February

• August

Applicants should prepare documentation in advance to meet round deadlines.

Eligible Projects

To qualify, projects must:

• Protect, maintain, and/or restore biodiversity

• Be located within Ashburton District boundaries

• Be situated between the Rakitata (Rangitata) and Rakaia Rivers

Examples of eligible biodiversity activities may include:

• Native planting and habitat restoration

• Pest control initiatives

• Wetland restoration

• Riparian planting

• Protection of threatened species habitats

• Ecological fencing

Projects must demonstrate measurable biodiversity outcomes.

Who Is Eligible?

Applicants must be based in the Ashburton District.

Eligible applicants include:

• Individuals

• Businesses

• Trusts and societies

• Schools

• Clubs

• Landcare Groups

• Catchment Groups

National organisations must apply through their local branch.

If applying on behalf of a landowner, written landowner agreement must be included.

Application Requirements

To be considered eligible:

• Only completed Biodiversity Application forms will be accepted

• All requested information must be provided

• Incomplete applications will be excluded from assessment

Applicants should ensure all required documentation is attached and clearly presented.

How to Apply

Follow these steps for a successful application.

Step 1: Confirm Project Eligibility

Ensure the project:

• Is within Ashburton District boundaries

• Is between the Rakitata (Rangitata) and Rakaia Rivers

• Focuses on biodiversity protection or restoration

Step 2: Prepare a Project Budget

• Calculate total project cost

• Ensure grant request does not exceed 50%

• Calculate volunteer time at current minimum wage

• Secure quotes where necessary

Step 3: Obtain Landowner Consent (If Required)

• Include written agreement if applying on behalf of a landowner

Step 4: Complete the Official Application Form

• Fill out all required sections

• Attach supporting documentation

• Double-check completeness

Step 5: Submit During Funding Round

Submit before either the February or August funding deadline.

Late or incomplete submissions will not be assessed.

What Makes a Strong Application?

Successful applications typically:

• Clearly define biodiversity outcomes

• Provide realistic timelines

• Demonstrate community involvement

• Show clear cost breakdowns

• Include measurable ecological impact indicators

• Provide accurate volunteer hour calculations

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Requesting more than 50% of project cost

• Submitting incomplete forms

• Failing to include landowner consent

• Miscalculating volunteer contribution

• Proposing projects outside district boundaries

• Submitting after the deadline

Careful review before submission improves approval chances.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the maximum grant available?

Up to $7,500 per project.

2. Can the grant cover the entire project cost?

No. The grant cannot exceed 50% of total project cost.

3. How often can I apply?

There are two funding rounds per year, in February and August.

4. Who can apply?

Individuals, businesses, trusts, societies, schools, clubs, and Landcare or Catchment Groups based in the Ashburton District.

5. Can national organisations apply?

Yes, but applications must be submitted through their local branch.

6. What geographical areas are eligible?

Projects must be within Ashburton District boundaries between the Rakitata (Rangitata) and Rakaia Rivers.

7. What happens if my application is incomplete?

Incomplete applications will not be considered during the funding assessment process.

Conclusion

The Ashburton District Council Biodiversity Grant Scheme provides practical financial support to protect and restore local ecosystems. With grants of up to $7,500 covering up to 50% of project costs, the scheme empowers communities to enhance biodiversity within defined district boundaries.

Applicants should ensure their projects align with biodiversity goals, meet co-funding requirements, and submit complete applications during the February or August funding rounds. Proper preparation and clear environmental impact planning are key to securing funding.