Funding allocated to Waipā creative projects

More than $50,000 has been allocated to 13 applicants in the September funding round of the Creative Communities Scheme.

The Scheme, a partnership with Creative New Zealand, is aimed at promoting, supporting and increasing participation in arts and cultural activities in Waipā. Funding can be used for materials for arts activities, venue or equipment hire, promotion of arts activities and administrative costs for short-term projects.

Among those to receive funding was the New Zealand Northumbrian Pipers’ Society for their popular Summer Workshop. They received $1,800.

The Whakamana Rangatahi Waipā Kapa Haka Festival, which has been dormant for the last two years due to COVID-19, was granted $3,500.

Other projects included a digital storytelling workshop, a film and a mural.

Waipā District Council community advisor Gina Scott said it was exciting to see workshops and in-person events among those to receive funding after two years of COVID-19 restrictions.

“It’s great to see events being revived this year with help from the Creative Communities Scheme. Events like the Kapa Haka festival empower both those who actively take part, and those who are spectators,” she said.

The next funding round will open 27 February 2023. The full list of successful applicants can be viewed at www.waipadc.govt.nz/creativecommunities.