Rural landowners in Franklin can access expert advice and up to 65 percent funding to help manage the severity and impact of flooding thanks to Auckland Council’s Making Space for Rural Water Fund.
If you own more than 5 hectares in the Franklin Local Board (Pukekohe Subdivision) within one of these catchments—Mauku Stream, Whangamaire Stream, Oira Creek, Whangapouri Creek, Pukekohe-Tutaenui Stream, or Otūwairoa (Slippery Creek)—you are eligible to apply.
Eligible owners are being urged to apply for the fund before applications close on 17 March.
“This new Auckland Council Fund was formed in response to the flood events in early 2023. The fund helps farmers implement interventions that can improve flood resiliency in the priority catchments”, said Leanna Birch, Manager Wai Ora Rural Partnerships at Auckland Council.
High risk catchments; properties within these areas are eligible to apply for the Making Space for Water Fund.
The funding can help improve your properties flood resiliency by contributing up to 65 percent of costs associated with the following activities:
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Stock exclusion fencing and native planting of wetlands to improve water infiltration, retention and quality
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Stock exclusion fencing (new or relocating existing fencing ) and native planting in a flood plain to make space for water in flood events
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Provision of alternative water supplies for stock who were previously accessing unfenced waterways
The application process consists of two simple steps:
Step 1: Book a free site visit by emailing ruralwaterways@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz between 19 February and 10 March 2025.
Step 2: Submit your application online by 5pm, Monday, 17 March 2025, via the Grants portal: Making Space for Rural Water Fund - Community Grants.
For more details, contact Auckland Council’s rural waterways team at ruralwaterways@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
