The next funding round will be in February 2026.

Council administers the Creative Communities Scheme that provides funding for arts and cultural projects in our district. The funding comes from Creative New Zealand.

To be eligible for funding your project must support at least one of the following:

• Access and participation: Create opportunities for local communities to engage with, and participate in local arts activities

• Diversity: Support the diverse artistic cultural traditions of local communities

• Young people: Enable young people (under 18 years) to engage with, and participate in the arts

 For more information on applying for this scheme - Guide for Applicants 

There are two funding rounds annually, they open on 2 February and 29 June 2026. They are both open for applications for a period of five weeks. The committee hearings are scheduled for 25 March and 24 August 2026. Please note, projects/events and costs occured before the funding rounds committee hearing will not be eligible for funding.  

You can apply through our online portal - available at the bottom of the menu to the left. Please reach out with the email above or give us a call on 0800 746 467 if you have any questions about the application process.