Funding for Waipā creatives

In the 2022/2023 funding round, the Te Awamutu Community Food Forest received support for its Pekarau Mural.

Waipā creatives can now apply for the second round of Creative Communities Scheme funding to support their community art and cultural activities.

The funds, which Waipā District Council distribute on behalf of Creative New Zealand, are allocated to support, promote and increase participation in the arts throughout Waipā. There is $32,500 available for this funding round.

Funding applications are assessed and grants are allocated by a committee of members who have a keen interest and knowledge in the arts sector.

In the 2022/2023 funding round, the Te Awamutu Community Food Forest received support for its Pekarau Mural. Project leader Megan Priscott said the space came to life thanks to the Creative Community Fund.

The Te Awamutu Community Food Forest is located at Pekerau Reserve and is a communal fruit forest and space for the community to share and connect.

“We love our mural, Kaitiaki o mara kai [Guardians of food garden] and we love what it represents and how it brings people together in the space,” Priscott said.

Applicants must fulfil at least one of the scheme’s three criteria: access and participation, diversity, or engagement with young people in the arts. Groups, organisations and individuals can apply for grants, which typically vary between $500-$5000.

Applications opened on Friday and will close on March 31.

Further information including the application form and funding criteria for the Creative Communities Scheme funding is available at waipadc.govt.nz/ creativecommunities