CLT grants support communities across the region
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Central Lakes Trust (CLT) has started the new financial year with a bang, approving $3,585,130 in grants at its April meeting. These grants will support organisations across the CLT funding region in a multitude of ways, including the promotion of culture and heritage.
New Te Kōhanga Reo in the Whakatipu basin
Our region will soon have its own “language nest”. Te Kōhanga Reo O Whakatipu Waimāori and Te Kōhanga Reo National Trust are establishing an accredited Te Kōhanga Reo early childhood education centre within Arrowtown School. This immersive learning environment will celebrate and nurture Māori language, culture, and identity – which is unique only to New Zealand – will help strengthen cultural connections and understanding throughout the region.
“We are incredibly grateful for this support and for the belief shown in this kaupapa,” says Nicholas Matthews, Co-Chair of Te Kōhanga Reo O Whakatipu Waimāori. “This moment reflects all of the mahi that has gone into getting us here, with so many whānau giving their time, energy, and aroha, driven by what we can already see for our tamariki and mokopuna standing strong in their māoritanga, grounded in te reo Māori, and knowing who they are and where they come from.”
CLT supported the project with a $147,784 contribution to help enable the establishment of this kaupapa.
Supporting creativity, culture, and heritage for a stronger community
Three Lakes Cultural Trust plays a central role in strengthening creativity, culture and heritage across the Queenstown Lakes District as the region’s independent not‑for‑profit regional arts organisation. Since 2019, Three Lakes Cultural Trust has provided leadership, coordination and advocacy to turn the district’s Creativity, Culture and Heritage Strategy, Te Muka Toi Te Muka Tākata, into tangible community action that supports connection, wellbeing, and participation.
“Creativity, culture and heritage are essential to a healthy and connected community,” says Samantha Kirk, CE of Three Lakes Cultural Trust. “They bring people together, reduce isolation, and create shared experiences that strengthen our sense of belonging across the district.”
Recognising the value of strong regional leadership within the creative and cultural sector, CLT has granted $92,037 towards Three Lakes Cultural Trust’s programme costs.
