Central Lakes Trust (CLT) awarded grants totalling $1,024,959 at its first board meeting for 2025. These grants will enable 23 charitable organisations throughout the region with their operations, programmes, and projects to benefit the community.
“Many of our grantees are community-led initiatives,” says Barbara Bridger, CEO. “It’s encouraging to see such a wide variety of organisations stepping up to address the needs and opportunities within our region.”
One of these community-led initiatives is Food for Love, who received $121,266 per annum towards their operational costs from 2025 to 2028. Founded in 2016 by Rebecca (Bex) Sarginson and Louise Carnie, Food For Love delivered over 9,000 meals to people in need in 2024, and estimates 12,000 meals will go out in the coming year.
“As the Upper Clutha’s population continues to grow, so does the need for our services,” says Jodie Stuart, General Manager, Food For Love Wānaka. “Funding like this ensures we can meet increasing demand and continue supporting families and individuals during their times of need—whether they are recovering from illness, injury, or facing unexpected challenges.”
Another organisation that received funding this round is the Dunstan Community Whare Trust (DCWT). The DCWT manages and maintains a whare for use by Māori, Central Otago Schools and the local community. The whare is a key community asset that serves as a venue for hui, tangi, community meetings, wānanga (workshops), celebrations, and educational purposes.
DCWT received $174,317 towards the addition of a dining room and upgrading the existing kitchen. This upgrade will likely see a larger number of community groups being able to use the facility.
CLT also granted $170,000 to Te Atamira to support the continuation of their community programmes.
Welcoming more than 83,000 visitors per annum, Te Atamira has become a hub for arts and culture in the Whakatipu basin. In addition to the 38 external groups that run regular programmes in their space, Te Atamira offers a range of community programmes at no or minimal cost to attendees.
"At Te Atamira, we see firsthand how creativity transforms lives,” says Olivia Egerton, Director. “Our free community programmes offer people of all ages and backgrounds the chance to explore their artistic potential, connect with others, and build confidence - not just in their creativity, but in themselves. Creativity strengthens resilience and well-being while also deepening our sense of place and belonging through shared experiences. In Tāhuna Queenstown, where many have chosen to make their home, this connection is especially important. Through hands-on workshops, gatherings, and the celebration of toi Māori kaupapa, people engage in the arts and uncover new strengths within themselves and their community. We look forward to growing our platform for creativity to flourish for everyone, every day.”