Community-led initiatives receive major funding boost from Central Lakes Trust

Over $1 million was awarded to 24 organisations at the recent board meeting of Central Lakes Trust (CLT), held on 17 June. This funding will support a wide range of initiatives across the region, including film making, cancer rehabilitation, facilities upgrades, and community safety.

Lighting the way to energy equity

The Queenstown Electrification Accelerator Programme, led by Rewiring Aotearoa (RA), received $220,000 to build community resilience through electrification. This pilot programme will establish a locally-based team to develop momentum and accelerate movement to alternate energy sources. A 2020 survey showed that 15% of residents in Queenstown and the Central Otago region were unable to heat their homes consistently. With energy costs still rising globally and nationwide, vulnerable households continue to be disproportionately impacted.

“Electrification holds the key to solving many of the challenges we face in our community,” says Rewiring Aotearoa’s CEO Mike Casey. “Switching our energy reliance from fossil fuels to locally generated electricity will lower the cost of living, improve community health, and reduce emissions to help our region become a global role model in community-led energy.”

While the name of the programme includes “Queenstown”, resources, educational materials, events, package deals, and capability building will be made available to everyone throughout the region.

“We are thrilled to support this initiative,” says Linda Robertson, Chair of CLT. “It’s an exciting step toward a more resilient and low-emissions future that ensures all our communities have access to clean, affordable energy.”

Making room to grow

Wānaka Preschool Early Learning Childhood Centre received $250,000 towards refreshing their current spaces and expanding to add a second sleep room. The preschool currently has 62 children between ages 1 and 5 in attendance. According to Centre Manager, Lo Stevenson, they receive enquiries about available spaces on a daily basis, and made the decision to cap their waitlist at 100. The renovations will allow them to expand their roll, enabling them continue to meet the growing needs of the community.