Grants support grassroots community projects across Whangārei
Published on 25 September 2025
The Hikurangi Mountain Lions Club Trust brought festive cheer to town with support from a community grant for the Hikurangi Christmas Parade.
Whangārei's flourishing community spirit is on display in the newly released Community Funding 2024-25 Annual Report, which showcases the impact of $3 million in grants distributed to 116 deserving groups across the District.
The full report can be found in the meeting agenda below (from page 63):
Community Development Committee agenda – 21 August 2025
From upgraded community halls to youth-led creative events, the report highlights how funding has helped bring ideas to life, strengthen local connections, and support communities across the region.
"We are so proud of the work being done in our community, made possible by the grants programme," said Community Funding Adviser Cindy Fields.
"Every dollar spent in grant money multiplies exponentially thanks to the work of all the community groups who make things happen for our people."
Snapshot of 2024-25 support
This year, 128 grants were awarded, ranging from $250 to $600,000, supporting everything from grassroots initiatives to large facility upgrades.
A significant portion, $1.7 million, was allocated through the District Amenities Fund, a non-contestable fund that provides operating support to community partners like Kiwi North, Quarry Gardens, Creative Northland, Citizens Advice Bureau, Waipu Museum, Ruakaka Recreation Centre and many more.
Almost $1 million was allocated from the Whangārei Communities Fund.
Whangārei Communities Fund
This contestable fund supported a wide range of projects across four areas: arts, culture and heritage; recreation and sport; the environment; and community wellbeing.
Local projects making a difference
Here are just some of the many inspiring projects supported over the year:
- the Hikurangi Christmas Festival, organised by the Hikurangi Mountain Lions Club Trust, bringing a parade, performances, and joy to families
- a new kiln for the Bream Bay Combined Arts Group
- native forest restoration and educational nursery at Bream Head Te Whara Conservation Trust
- a new basketball half-court in Waipū
- a new ablution block at Tangihua Lions Lodge
- a subsidised programme supporting dog desexing and vaccinations
- dementia education workshops.
One standout story is the transformation of Waiotira Hall, where a $10,000 grant helped complete a new kitchen capable of catering for up to 80 people. Following a successful flooring upgrade the previous year, the hall is now a hub for community gatherings.
"Through their working bees and fundraising, the hall has been completely transformed into an attractive and functional facility the locals are rightly proud of," said Ms Fields.
Youth innovation
Youth-led initiatives also received support, including the Youth Creators Market 'Fish Tank' during Youth Week.
Other events ranged from a sports day and dance workshop to Minecraft competitions and the Northland Amateur Film Festival.
Looking ahead
The report also highlights other forms of support such as rent concessions, interest-free community loans, and community association grants.
A major innovation this year was the launch of SmartyGrants, a fully online grants portal that has streamlined the application process.
SmartyGrants (wdc.smartygrants.com.au)
"The response from the community has been incredibly positive," said Ms Fields.
"It's easier than ever to apply, and we encourage everyone with a great idea to give it a go. New funding rounds take place every month."