Deadline: 03-Oct-2025
The Auckland Council is offering the Ōrākei Quick Response and Tree Protection Grant to support a wide range of community projects that enrich the local area.
With funding available between $1,000 and $4,000, the program provides an accessible way for groups and individuals to deliver initiatives across arts, community development, environment, events, heritage, and sports and recreation.
The grant programme is closely aligned with the Ōrākei Local Board Plan 2023, which emphasizes people, environment, community, places, and economy. By focusing on these areas, the programme aims to strengthen the fabric of local life while ensuring that funded activities reflect community priorities and aspirations.
Applications that demonstrate a strong “match funding” approach, where groups contribute time, cash, or in-kind services, will be given higher priority. Preference will also be given to events and activities based in the Ōrākei Local Board area that show a clear benefit to local residents. Proposals that have sought other funding sources or include volunteer contributions will be considered particularly strong.
Projects that focus on commercial ventures, ticketed events with significant revenue, catering, or routine operational costs are considered lower priority. Activities primarily benefiting communities outside the Ōrākei area or those taking place in schools without wider community benefits also fall into this category.
A unique aspect of this grant programme is its Tree Protection component. Recognizing the importance of trees to the character and amenity of local neighbourhoods, the Ōrākei Local Board offers property owners support for tree works that preserve the long-term health of notable trees. Eligible applications may involve scheduled trees listed in the Auckland Unitary Plan or non-scheduled landscape trees that meet assessment criteria. Each property owner can apply once per year per tree, and funding is not available for trees that have already received support in the previous year.
The Ōrākei Quick Response and Tree Protection Grant represents the board’s commitment to safeguarding the environment while empowering local groups and individuals to deliver projects that celebrate culture, strengthen community, and preserve the natural landscape. It is an opportunity for residents to take practical steps that enhance both neighbourhood life and the environment for future generations.
For more information, visit Auckland Council.