Funding available for community projects

3 August 2026

Whether you’re a local community group, sports club, cultural organisation, volunteer network, or an individual with a project that benefits the district, you’re encouraged to apply to the District-wide Contestable Fund.

This includes individuals seeking funding for international representation, provided their project meets the fund’s criteria.

Open to not-for-profit groups, organisations, and individuals operating within the Tararua District. Projects must demonstrate clear community benefits and meet the criteria.

Detailed information about the fund - including eligibility requirements, application guidelines and FAQ - can be found at www.tararuadc.govt.nz/grants.

Applications close on 31 August 2026.

Projects previously supported by the fund

The District-wide Contestable Fund supported the Friends of Pahiatua-Mangatainoka Cemetery to complete restoration of the historic David Crewe monument and surrounding garden maintenance. Professional monumental masons repaired cracks and reinstated the monument’s spire.

Side by side comparison of the same historic gravestone before and one year after conservation treatment. The left image shows the headstone covered in lichen and weathering, making the inscription difficult to read. The right image shows the cleaned headstone with the inscription clearly visible, demonstrating the effectiveness of the treatment after one year. A caption above the images reads: "The left-hand photo is before spraying, the right-hand photo is one year later."