Deadline: 12-Sep-2025
The Auckland Council is now inviting applications for the Waitākere Ranges Local Grant Programme.
This initiative is aimed at supporting people, places, culture, and the environment, with a strong focus on resilience, sustainability, and community connection.
This funding opportunity supports a wide range of initiatives, from arts and heritage to environmental restoration, community development, and sports and recreation. At its core, the programme is about uplifting diverse communities, enhancing the natural environment, and fostering a deep sense of belonging and wellbeing across the region.
The priorities of the programme speak to the unique character of the Waitākere Ranges. These include protecting biodiversity and significant ecological areas, restoring streams, wetlands, and the Manukau Harbour, and strengthening the connection between people and nature. It supports projects that recognise Māori identity, protect the mauri of freshwater bodies, and build strong, productive relationships with mana whenua and mataawaka.
The local board also seeks to support thriving town centres, sustainable villages, and resilient transport networks that link neighbourhoods. There is a strong emphasis on visible and valued Māori culture, inclusive parks and open spaces, and a network of vibrant arts and cultural experiences. Libraries and community facilities are expected to remain central to local life, providing engaging spaces for all.
In addition to these broad aims, certain projects will be given higher priority. These include initiatives that are smokefree, promote healthy food, reduce waste, or encourage zero waste practices. Projects that enhance community resilience, encourage deeper connections, and improve wellbeing are also strongly favoured. The board also welcomes applications from areas impacted by filming activities.
Lower priority may be given to applications where the group holds substantial financial reserves and cannot demonstrate specific use for them, or when the project occurs outside the local board area without clear benefits to the local community. Projects that have already received funding from another local board within the same financial year, or those submitted by national organisations, may also be deprioritised.
Grants range from $1,500 to $12,000 depending on the scope and scale of the project. Community organisations with formal legal structures are encouraged to apply. Individuals or unstructured groups may apply for up to $1,000, though those seeking more than that must apply through an umbrella organisation. Reimbursement may be available upon completion for successful projects.
There are a few clear exclusions. Political parties, Auckland Council staff or internal departments, council-controlled organisations, and entities already receiving statutory funding through legislation are not eligible to apply. Similarly, other public sector agencies and local authorities fall outside the scope of this funding.
The Waitākere Ranges Local Grant Programme represents an opportunity to bring positive change to communities while protecting the environment, celebrating heritage, and encouraging creativity. It offers real support to projects that reflect local identity, respond to challenges, and contribute to a more sustainable and connected future.
For more information, visit Auckland Council.