Community groups, creatives and local organisations across Horowhenua are being encouraged to start thinking about bringing their ideas to life, with applications for the Horowhenua District Council 2025/2026 Community Grants and Funding programme opening on 1 February 2026.

The grants support a wide range of community-led initiatives, including events, creative projects, youth-led ideas, environmental initiatives and projects that strengthen community connection and wellbeing.

Mayor Bernie Wanden says Council’s grants and funding is about backing the people who make Horowhenua a great place to live. “Our community is full of people with great ideas and a real passion for making a difference.”

“These grants are here to support that energy and help turn ideas into reality. Projects that bring people together and strengthen our communities.”

Previous funding rounds have supported projects right across the district, from community events and cultural festivals to creative performances, exhibitions and improvements to local facilities.

To help make the application process as straightforward as possible, Council is hosting a series of drop-in support sessions where people can ask questions, talk through their ideas and get one-on-one help with their applications.

“You don’t need to have everything figured out before you apply,” says Mayor Wanden. “The drop-in sessions are a great way to have a conversation, get some guidance and feel confident about putting an application in.”

Community Grants Drop-in Sessions:

• Levin – Te Takeretanga o Kura-hau-pō
  Thursday 29 January, 3pm to 4.30pm
• Foxton – Te Awahou Nieuwe Stroom Library
  Monday 26 January, 1pm to 2.30pm
• Shannon Library
  Thursday 29 January, 2pm to 3.30pm

Applications open on 1 February 2026 and close on 3 March 2026.

A range of grants are available in this funding round, each supporting different aspects of community wellbeing.

Grants open and upcoming closing dates:

• Waste Minimisation Fund – closes 3 March 2026
• Community Events and Programmes Fund – closes 3 March 2026
• Urupā Whānau Maintenance Fund – closes 3 March 2026
• Creative Communities Scheme – closes 10 March 2026

The following grants are also available:

• Horowhenua Major Events Fund – open year-round and will remain open as long as funding is still available.
• Youth Empowerment Fund – open until 31 October 2026 with three cut off dates throughout the year (30 April, 31 July & 31 October)

More information, including eligibility criteria and how to apply, is available at horowhenua.govt.nz/grants.

Recipients of the Community Grants and Community Funding programme align with Council’s priority to enhance health and wellbeing initiatives, as outlined in the Community Wellbeing Strategy 2024-2027. By hosting regular events and supporting local programmes, this funding actively promotes community health and wellbeing, ensuring that Horowhenua remains a place where people feel connected and supported.

© Scoop Media