From getting more young people out on the water to creating spaces for art, youth and families, community groups across Upper Harbour are turning ideas into reality with support from the Upper Harbour Local Board.
The board’s Facilities Grant helps fund building projects, upgrades and improvements to community spaces, giving local groups the spaces they need to deliver programmes, support their communities and maintain these spaces for years to come.
One group already seeing the impact is Tauhinu Sea Scout Group in Greenhithe, which received $67,465.26 to help build a new boatshed.
Tauhinu Sea Scout Group Chair Katie Christoffersen says the support has made a real difference.
“We’re absolutely over the moon to receive this funding. With the support we’ve received, we now have enough to begin phase one construction, a huge milestone for us. This will make a real difference for our young people and the wider community.”
The group, which supports more than 150 young people, has been working towards this project for years. Limited and hard-to-access storage has meant their boats haven’t been used as often as they could be. The new boatshed will change that, making it easier for young people to get out on the water and take part in sailing, kayaking and water safety programmes, while also opening the space to schools and other community groups.
Upper Harbour Local Board chair Anna Atkinson says investing in community facilities helps local groups continue doing what they do best.
“When we invest in community facilities, we’re supporting the spaces that bring people together. These projects give local groups the ability to provide activities, maintain their facilities and create places where communities can connect and thrive.”
More spaces for community life to grow
Three other community organisations also received funding in this round:
- ArtPoint Onekiritea Charitable Trust received $45,183.01 to help turn the historic Armoury at Bomb Point into a permanent arts space.
- Connected Neighbourhoods Trust received $90,839 to support a new youth and community hub at Scott Point Park.
- Albany Community Action Trust received $70,000 (subject to conditions) towards developing a family and youth hub.
Together, these projects show how investing in community facilities creates lasting benefits, from stronger connections to more opportunities for people to learn, create and participate.
In addition, $39,506.54 was awarded to 12 organisations through the latest Upper Harbour Local Grants round, supporting a range of community programmes, activities and events.
Applications for the next Facilities Grant open on 7 December, and Local Grants on 3 August this year. Read more on the Auckland Council website.
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