Queenstown Lakes District Council has awarded $461,000 in funding to community groups, project and events in its latest round.
Council community partnerships manager Marie Day said the funding reflected the diversity and drive of the district’s community sector.
"We’re proud to support a broad mix of groups and projects that contribute to the wellbeing of our communities and the places we care about.
"From grassroots community initiatives to large-scale events and important heritage preservation work, these funds help enable the people and organisations who bring our district to life," she said.
Council relationship manager for arts and events Jan Maxwell said this year’s event fund had a total pool of $250,000 available to help organisers improve sustainability practices, reduce waste and deliver memorable community experiences.
"We’ve been able to award grants to 15 events taking place across the district including Challenge Wānaka, Queenstown Multicultural Festival, Central Lakes Polyfest, New Zealand Mountain Film Festival, Global Games, Arrowtown Autumn Festival and the Wānaka Festival of Colour.
"These events bring people together, celebrate our district and create lasting benefits for residents and visitors alike," she said.
As part of the funding round, the council also supported applicants through the funding series workshop.
Delivered in partnership with huddl, Three Lakes Cultural Trust, Sport Otago and the Conservation Alliance, the workshops provided practical guidance on preparing funding applications, building organisational capability and planning for long-term sustainability.
