Waipā musicians, poets, dancers and filmmakers can now apply for another share of Creative New
Zealand funding to help support local arts in the district.
The latest round of the 2024/25 Creative Communities funding is now open, with $52,089 to allocate
over two rounds, in September and March.
The scheme aims to create opportunities for communities to engage with and participate in local
arts – anything from hip-hop to choir music, musical theatre, weaving, painting and film-making will
be considered.
The funding is provided by Creative New Zealand for council to distribute. Waipā had 42 contenders
apply for the 2023/24 funding rounds, the most Waipā has received in recent years.
In the last funding round, the Te Awamutu Little Theatre received support for their Children’s Day
Free Play – Duck Star. Little Theatre President Glenda Barclay said the show wouldn’t have been able
to go ahead without the funding.
“We try to keep our costs down so we can put on a free show, which is extremely important to us.
There is an increasing need for whānau to seek out affordable entertainment and having no door
charge allows everyone to attend,” she said.
“The community loved the play so much we had to add an extra show. We were thrilled we could
deliver an exciting experience and bring exposure to live theatre, especially for our young people.”
Successful applicants to the Creative Communities fund must meet at least one of the scheme’s
three criteria of promoting access and participation, diversity, or engagement with young people in
the arts.
Groups, organisations and individuals can apply for the grants which typically vary between $500
and $5000.
Applications will close on Monday, September 30. Grant and funding applications are assessed and
allocated by a committee of members with experience and interest in the arts sector.
To find the application form and funding criteria visit - waipadc.govt.nz/creativecommunities
