Deadline: 06-Mar-2026

The Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board Grants Programme provides contestable funding to community groups and residents to strengthen social, cultural, environmental, and economic wellbeing within the Ōtara-Papatoetoe area. Projects that promote safety, sustainability, active lifestyles, Te ao Māori integration, and community-led initiatives are prioritized, with grants starting at $500 to support meaningful local impact.

Program Overview

The Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board Grants Programme empowers local communities by providing contestable funding for initiatives that enhance wellbeing, sustainability, and economic prosperity. The program supports projects that:

• Strengthen social cohesion and celebrate diversity

• Promote Te ao Māori, Māori culture, and mātauranga Māori

• Support whānau, rangatahi, and tamariki to thrive

• Encourage community participation, learning, and shaping of local life

• Enhance environmental sustainability and climate action

Key Priorities

The program prioritizes projects that:

• Promote safe neighbourhoods and active, family-friendly living

• Encourage smoke-free, vape-free, alcohol- and drug-free environments

• Support zero-waste initiatives, climate action, and sustainable practices

• Improve greenspace, tree canopy cover, and biodiversity

• Enhance community facilities and active recreation opportunities

• Advance skills development, employment opportunities, and thriving local businesses

• Align with the Ōtara-Papatoetoe Play Plan to support play for all ages

Eligibility

Eligible applicants include:

• Residents and community groups based in or serving Ōtara-Papatoetoe

• Projects that provide positive outcomes for mana whenua and reduce climate impacts

• Initiatives that align with the Local Board’s priorities and community wellbeing goals

Funding Details

• Minimum grant: $500

• Purpose: Support community-led initiatives that create meaningful local impact

• Contestable nature: Funding is awarded based on alignment with program priorities, innovation, and community benefit

Lower Priority or Ineligible Projects

• Ticketed or commercial events

• Projects purchasing limited-use equipment

• Feasibility studies or planning exercises

• Applications without applicant financial contribution

• Projects with access to other funding

• Salary payments (except limited facilitator fees)

• Repeat applications in the same financial year

• Start-up business costs or excessive facilitation costs

• Projects without accountability for prior funding

How to Apply

Step-by-step guide:

1. Confirm eligibility: Ensure the project serves Ōtara-Papatoetoe residents and aligns with Local Board priorities.

2. Prepare project details: Include objectives, expected outcomes, timeline, and budget.

3. Demonstrate community impact: Show how the project strengthens wellbeing, safety, sustainability, or economic opportunities.

4. Submit application: Follow the Local Board’s official application process and deadlines.

5. Evaluation and funding: Applications are assessed for alignment with priorities, innovation, and measurable impact.

Why It Matters

The grants programme strengthens local communities by:

• Empowering residents and community groups to lead initiatives that matter

• Supporting sustainable, safe, and inclusive community development

• Promoting Te ao Māori integration and cultural visibility

• Encouraging healthy lifestyles, active recreation, and environmental stewardship

• Enhancing economic and social opportunities for residents

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who can apply for funding?
   Residents and community groups based in or serving Ōtara-Papatoetoe.

2. What types of projects are prioritized?
   Projects promoting safety, sustainability, active lifestyles, cultural integration, play, and community wellbeing.

3. What is the minimum grant amount?
   $500.

4. Are commercial or ticketed projects eligible?
   No, these are considered lower priority or ineligible.

5. Can applicants receive funding for salaries?
   Only limited facilitator fees may be considered; full salary funding is generally ineligible.

6. Are projects with other funding sources eligible?
   Projects with access to other funding are lower priority.

7. How is success measured?
   Impact is assessed based on community benefit, alignment with priorities, and measurable outcomes.

Conclusion

The Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board Grants Programme provides accessible, contestable funding to empower communities, support sustainable and inclusive initiatives, and enhance the wellbeing, safety, and prosperity of the Ōtara-Papatoetoe area. By prioritizing projects that integrate cultural values, environmental sustainability, and active participation, the program fosters strong, vibrant, and resilient local communities.

For more information, visit Auckland Council.