Where and how to apply for funding for biodiversity, environmental enhancement, and sustainability
projects for schools, landowners and managers, and community groups. Updated 4 June 2014.
“Everyone is expending countless hours and effort on sausage sizzles when they’d reap a far better return on (time and money) investment applying for
funding. The money is out there. You just need to ask for it” – Fundview
Sonny Whitelaw, Biodiversity Advisor, Hurunui District Council
PO Box 13, Amberley, 7441 | 66 Carters Rd, Amberley 7410
Ph: 03 3148816 or 027 5286975 | Email: biodiversity@hurunui.govt.nz
1
Funding for biodiversity, environmental enhancement, and sustainability projects: 4 June 2014
Table of Contents
Overview ..........................................................................................................................................................................2
Funding for landowners and land managers including Council reserves ............................................................................3
Funding for community groups .......................................................................................................................................12
Funding for schools .........................................................................................................................................................24
Tips for applying ............................................................................................................................................................33
Competitions, awards, scholarships ...............................................................................................................................34
Useful contacts ..............................................................................................................................................................34
Overview
The contents of this document are by no means exhaustive. Funding bodies regularly update and amend their conditions, and Fundview add more to their
website every week, so this document should be used as a guide only. Applications and more detailed information can be downloaded from individual
websites. The information in this table is taken from several sources, including –
 Department of Internal Affairs ‘Community Matters’ (http://www.communitymatters.govt.nz/Grants-online---Login) - you will need to register 
 The Department of Conservation (http://www.doc.govt.nz/getting-involved/volunteer-join-or-start-a-project/start-or-fund-a- 
project/funding/funding-for-community-conservation-projects/funding-organisations/)
 Environment Canterbury http://ecan.govt.nz/advice/biodiversity/funding/pages/other-funding.aspx 
 Fundview (www.fis.org), a (paid) subscription only database you can access through the Hurunui Library computers. Just ask a librarian if you don’t 
know how. Alternatively, if you live in the Waimakariri District and have a Waimakariri library card with a PIN, you can access Fundview from any
computer through http://libraries.waimakariri.govt.nz/community.aspx, by clicking on the Fundview link. Insert your library card number and PIN,
then much like Google enter key words, and voila. For example, a search that schools might use with the words ‘Canterbury, Hurunui, education,
environment, children, environmental enhancement’ produced over 100 possible sources of funding.
 Office for the Community & Voluntary Sector Provides an overview of funding http://www.ocvs.govt.nz/about-the-community-and-voluntarysector/funding-for-the-sector/index.html
2
Funding for biodiversity, environmental enhancement, and sustainability projects: 4 June 2014
Funding for landowners and land managers* (including Council reserves)
*Landowners and managers, there are also income tax benefits for planting riparian vegetation. See:
http://www.legislation.govt.nz/act/public/2007/0097/latest/DLM1523354.html
...and mitigating discharge of contaminants: http://legislation.govt.nz/act/public/2007/0097/189.0/DLM1513709.html. Please check with
your accountant if you are uncertain exactly what are your entitlements, but simply put, some fencing and planting is regarded as an
operational expense rather than a capital investment.

Name and website or contact details
More Information
Dates for grant
applications
Feeling overwhelmed after skimming through all of this?
Not sure where to begin?
Simply provide some basic details of your idea and a member of the ECan Biodiversity Team will be in contact with you soon to discuss possible funding and
advice. http://ecan.govt.nz/advice/biodiversity/funding/Pages/biodiversity-enhancement-form.aspx
Immediate steps Biodiversity Funding under the
Canterbury Water Management Strategy
http://ecan.govt.nz/advice/biodiversity/funding/page
s/immediate-steps.aspx
Contact: Jean Tompkins
Biodiversity Officer
Jean-marie.tompkins@ecan.govt.nz
Ph: 027-475-6285 or 03-365-3828
A five year $10 million ‘Immediate Steps’ biodiversity protection and
restoration programme was launched in 2010 as an integral part of the
Canterbury Water Management Strategy. $100,000/year is available until 2015
for the Hurunui District.
Ongoing;
$100,000/year
available until
2015 for the
Hurunui District
The purpose of the fund is to encourage landowners and managers to support
on the ground actions focussing on protecting and connecting waterways and
wetlands with remnant biodiversity values. Examples of projects that may be
supported by funding include fencing streams, springs or wetlands, weed
control in wetlands, planting to improve habitats for native fish, earthworks and
signage.
The funding will contribute a maximum of two-thirds the cost of projects.
Landowners typically provide the remaining one third in kind; that is, they
provide labour such as fencing and weed control. Alternatively you may seek
additional funding from other sources such as the Biodiversity Conditions Fund
3
Funding for biodiversity, environmental enhancement, and sustainability projects: 4 June 2014
(see below in this table)
While priority is currently being given to areas around Conway Hills, coastal
areas between the Conway and Waiau Rivers, North Pegasus Bay coastal areas,
and Lake Sumner areas, additional funding is also available for other areas of
high biodiversity value including drylands (see below).
Biodiversity Fund (Ecan)
http://ecan.govt.nz/advice/biodiversity/funding/Page
s/eef.aspx
Contact biodiversity@ecan.govt.nz
World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Habitat Protection Fund
http://www.wwf.org.nz/what_we_do/community_fu
nding/habitat_protection_fund/
For more information, please contact Jenny Lynch,
Community Conservation Co-ordinator or phone 04
815 8526.
QEII National Trust
http://www.openspace.org.nz/
Criteria: Individuals, landowners, community and conservation groups, schools
and recreational groups proposing projects that enhance native
biodiversity,(native flora and fauna, and are environmentally sustainable.
Representativeness: the extent to which an area represents a habitat type or
ecosystem that is typical of the area concerned;
Ecological context: projects must provide a benefit to indigenous biodiversity
and play an important role in the health of the wider ecosystem long-term.
Geographic spread: the aim will be to ensure a fair distribution of projects
across the region;
Land ownership: proposed projects should generally be on private, customary
or coastal land. Some work is expected to be contributed by the land owner.
Project ownership: projects undertaken by groups need clearly identified
leadership.
Maximum
amount is
$20,000 per
project.
Applications
received all year
round,
Considered 30
April and 30
September.
Gives preference to projects working to protect areas of high conservation
value. The priorities this coming year are:
 Freshwater environments and their catchments
 Coastal and dune systems
 Wetlands and estuaries
 Lowland and coastal forest communities
 Habitats of threatened indigenous species
Open 1 July
2014 . Maximum
$10,000
Criteria: QEII National Trust helps private landowners in New Zealand protect
significant natural and cultural features on their land with open space
covenants. "Open space" means any area of land or body of water that serves
to preserve or to facilitate the preservation of any landscape of aesthetic,
Year round
4
Funding for biodiversity, environmental enhancement, and sustainability projects: 4 June 2014
Local QEII Contact in North Canterbury is Miles Giller:
mgiller@openspace.org.nz
cultural, recreational, scenic, scientific or social interest or value.”
Open space covenants help safeguard forever special features like landscapes,
forest remnants, wetlands, lakes, threatened species habitats, geological
features and cultural heritage sites.
Honda Tree Fund
Criteria: Ten native trees are funded for every new car that Honda New Zealand
sells, with another three funded by your local Honda dealer. These funds are
awarded to Regional Councils throughout the country to assist with native
plantings. In 2011/12 $23,810 from the Honda TreeFund was awarded to the
Canterbury region to the best community-based native planting projects.
See contact
details
A good example of an environmental funding request comes from Save the
Otago Peninsular (http://www.mazdafoundation.org.nz/#/grantRecipients click on the image of the jewelled gecko). The wording in the application
included a short but clearly stated objective, details of how the funds would be
used to further that (hoped) objective, and why the objective was important:
planting native trees to continue enhancing an environment suitable for
jewelled geckos. Simple and to the point.
Closes
http://ecan.govt.nz/advice/biodiversity/funding/page
s/hondatreefund.aspx
Mazda Foundation
http://www.mazdafoundation.org.nz/#/grantGuidelin
es
30 June 2014
30 September
2014
30 March 2015
Recipients in 2013 included Marlborough Falcon Conservation Trust, and
Wellington Zoo (Tuatara Conservation).
Fonterra Grass Roots Fund
http://www.fonterra.com/global/en/Sustainability/Co
mmunity/Grassroots+Fund
Criteria: To be considered for support, your initiative or activity must fit within
the sponsorship categories and meet criteria outlined below.
Category 2. Caring for our Environment. We take care of the environment by
supporting sustainable initiatives. Examples of previous environment
sponsorships in this category include:


Usually March
and September
each year
Riparian planting projects
Equipment to be used to enhance the environment
5
Funding for biodiversity, environmental enhancement, and sustainability projects: 4 June 2014
Community Conservation Partnerships Fund - Pūtea
Tautiaki Hapori
http://www.doc.govt.nz/getting-involved/run-aproject/funding/community-conservationpartnerships-fund /
Contact:
Fund Advisor
National Office
Department of Conservation
18-32 Manners Street
PO Box 10-420
Wellington 6143
Natural Heritage Fund
http://www.doc.govt.nz/getting-involved/volunteerjoin-or-start-a-project/start-or-fund-aproject/funding/nature-heritage-fund
Contact:
The Executive Officer
Nature Heritage Fund
PO Box 10-420
Wellington
Tel: +64 4 471 0726 or Fax +64 4 471-3018
Email NHF-Admin@doc.govt.nz
The Department of Conservation Community Conservation Partnerships Fund Pūtea Tautiaki Hapori provides funding to community-led conservation groups
for natural heritage and recreation projects in New Zealand on public and
private land and waters.
Criteria: Aims to improve and maintain the condition of areas of indigenous
vegetation, species and habitats, including wetlands and other freshwater
ecosystems. The fund seeks to broaden community effort in the management
of indigenous biodiversity, and to complement other contributions for its
enhancement.
Projects could involve:
 fencing
 weed control
 restoration planting
 pest control
Applications are invited from private landowners and community groups for
projects aimed at improving or maintaining the condition of indigenous
vegetation, species and habitats.
Open again
probably early
2015 – check
the website
The Nature Heritage Fund protects ecosystems that represent the full range of
natural diversity originally present in the New Zealand landscape by providing
incentives for voluntary conservation on private land.
The Nature Heritage Fund helps meet the cost of protecting areas of high
ecological value on private land by providing contestable finance for projects
that protect ecosystems either by direct purchase, or covenant.
Applications can be made to the Nature Heritage Fund by:
 private landowners,
 local and regional government bodies, and local authority trading
enterprises,
 professional and community-based organisations
 local, regional, and national “umbrella” organisations, and
 non-government organisations (NGOs),
 central government departments and agencies
10 February
30 April
31 July
31 October
annually
Applications must be on the Fund’s application form accompanied by the
supporting material specified on the form.
6
Funding for biodiversity, environmental enhancement, and sustainability projects: 4 June 2014
Lottery grants
http://www.communitymatters.govt.nz/Funding-andgrants---Lottery-grants---Lottery-Environment-andHeritage#natural
Call 0800 824 824
email community.matters@dia.govt.nz
Natural Heritage projects
 the purchase of project materials
 applied research with a clear community benefit
 ecological restoration projects in various habitats including, but not
limited to: wetlands, forests, riparian margins, freshwater, marine,
alpine and grassland habitats
 pest and predator management programmes, including plans, consents
and signage costs and associated transport costs, such as helicopter
drops
 the preparation of project specific plans, such as ecological restoration ,
management plans and feasibility studies (see the Cultural Heritage
Projects section for the necessary requirements)
 monitoring
 project-related salaries, including project management
 the establishment of native plant nurseries. These must form part of a
wider ecological restoration project, which will be assessed as above.
The nursery must produce locally eco-sourced plants and have suitably
qualified employees
 non-administrative, project-related costs associated with volunteers
 breeding programmes, including native animal release programmes and
captive programmes
 education programmes and materials such as publications and
education kits (there are restrictions on educational funding). Please
read What we do not fund
 awareness-raising and interpretation materials including but not limited
to: brochures, markers, information panels, project-related website
development (subject to assurance that the applicant has the financial
ability and expertise to continue to maintain the website) and research,
writing and publication projects (see the Cultural Heritage Projects
section for the necessary requirements)
 walkways, bridges and boardwalks when these meet one of the four
priority areas, such as the protection or promotion of issues affecting
New Zealand’s native flora and fauna
 research and graphic design (but excluding concept and structural
design) of interpretive material including brochures and panels, projectrelated website development, the construction of interpretive panels
Can be over
$100,000
subject to
feasibility study
ect. Also small
amounts for
small projects
2 July 2014
26 November
2014
7
Funding for biodiversity, environmental enhancement, and sustainability projects: 4 June 2014
and printing of brochures or booklets.
Priority is given to projects which:
 conserve New Zealand’s native flora and fauna
 conserve significant or threatened habitats and eco-systems
 conserve rare, endangered or threatened species in their natural
habitat
 improve public education and awareness of issues affecting our native
flora and fauna
On private land priority is given to projects:
 where the natural heritage value of the land is protected by a
covenant/kawenata on the land title (this ensures that the natural
heritage value of the land will be protected even if the land is sold)
 which provide public access, where appropriate
Sustainable Farming Fund 2014
http://www.mpi.govt.nz/environment-naturalresources/funding-programmes/sustainable-farmingfund/sff-funded-projects-2014
Contact: Ph: 0800 00 83 33
Project Crimson
http://www.projectcrimson.org.nz/funding/page.aspx
A large range of funds is available for diverse purposes on rural properties and
aquaculture. The Sustainable Farming Fund (SFF) invests in farmer, grower and
forester-led projects that deliver economic, environmental and social benefits
to New Zealand’s primary industries. The purpose of the SFF is to support
Communities of Interest to undertake applied research and extension projects
to tackle a shared problem or to develop a new opportunity. SFF projects are
led by rural landowners and managers often with the support of industry
organisations, agribusiness, researchers or consultants. Most successful
projects are able to leverage a high proportion of other funding or in-kind
support to complement the SFF grant.
Opens 21
October 2013
Criteria: Community and volunteer support is vital to Project Crimson's success.
The Trust works with organisations, communities and individuals throughout
New Zealand and assists them by providing funding and trees for local projects.
If you have a project that features pohutukawa (NOT IN THE SOUTH ISLAND –
PHUTUKAWA IS A PEST SPECIES!) or rata that could benefit from the expertise
or funding from Project Crimson, then please email information regarding your
project to info@projectcrimson.org.nz
To be considered, the project must provide long-term benefits to the local
environment and provide tangible evidence of effective resource management.
01 May 2015
Closes 2pm 18
November 2013
8
Funding for biodiversity, environmental enhancement, and sustainability projects: 4 June 2014
Weedbusters Small Scale Initiative Funding
http://weedbusters.co.nz/funding/initiative_fund.asp
Contact: Environment Canterbury:
info@weedbusters.org.nz
Canterbury Community Trust
http://www.commtrust.org.nz
Download application forms and ‘how to apply’:
http://www.commtrust.org.nz/application-forms
Criteria: The Weedbusters small-scale initiative fund, supported by individual
regional councils, unitary authorities, and Department of Conservation,
provides funds for Weedbusters groups to cover ‘small scale’ costs such as
tools, herbicides, mulcher hire, greenwaste disposal, promotional activities
within communities to get Weedbusters groups off the ground, and so on.
Funding is on application rather than contestable, with a limited pool of funds
($2000) available in each area in each financial year.
Criteria for funding applications to be considered:
 Groups or individuals must have registered as Weedbusters through
www.weedbusters.org.nz
 Projects can be on public land, or on private land where two or more
landowners are working together to clear areas of weeds by either
targeting specific high-risk species or as part of a wider restoration
project. The project is not to be based in private gardens (not including
undeveloped gullies) or on productive farmland.
Incorporated societies or registered charitable trusts of community based
organisations are eligible to apply for the Canterbury Community Trust
donations. This means that your group must have a Certificate of Incorporation
obtained through the Ministry of Economic Development. You may also obtain
charitable organisation status through the Charities Commission, which is
administered by the Department of Internal Affairs. Schools, NZ Free
Kindergarten Assn. Members and Churches are not required to supply a copy of
the letter granting charitable status.
20 September
2014
Organisations may only submit one application per year. All groups within an
organisation or association should consolidate their request into one
application. While several needs might be expressed, they should be listed in
priority order. Funding of any request is not guaranteed.
Omihi School, for example, recently received 6 ipads.
9
Funding for biodiversity, environmental enhancement, and sustainability projects: 4 June 2014
MainPower Hurunui Natural Environment Fund
http://www.hurunui.govt.nz/services/awards-andfunds/mainpower-hurunui-natural-environment-fund
/
Criteria: The purpose of the fund is to encourage and assist with voluntary work
that benefits the natural environment. The focus is on work that improves,
benefits, enhances, restores or reinstates indigenous natural resources – in
particular, land, vegetation, wetlands or bird habitat.
April 2015
The fund is open only to residents and ratepayers of the Hurunui District –
individuals or groups – for work relating to either private or public land.
It is a contestable fund, in which there is $10,000.00. Of that sum, $7,000 is
earmarked for projects that are protecting existing areas, and $3,000 for
projects creating new areas. Applications will be assessed by decision makers
who are wholly independent of Council. The fund is not available:
 For work that there is a legal obligation to do;
 To compensate for work already done. It is intended to assist with the
cost of future work;
 For the entire cost of a project. It will complement the applicant’s
contributions;
 For beautification projects, or to support those driven primarily for
financial gain
NEXT Foundation
http://nextfoundation.org.nz
NEXT Foundation’s vision is to create a legacy of environmental and
educational excellence for the benefit of future generations of New
Zealanders.
Education and the environment have been chosen as the two categories for
support and investment because we consider that they have the greatest
potential to inspire and create lasting value for New Zealanders.
Education
By supporting and investing in aspirational education projects, we aim to
empower young people today and the leaders of tomorrow. Education opens
the door to personal development, economic opportunity and innovation for
society as a whole. New Zealand has an excellent education system, but there
are a wide range of initiatives that can drive higher achievement and outcomes,
including innovative projects at the edges of traditional systems.
We will invest in projects that strive for educational excellence to provide all
New Zealanders with the opportunity to fulfil their potential and develop into
11 July 2014
10
Funding for biodiversity, environmental enhancement, and sustainability projects: 4 June 2014
talented individuals with the skills and confidence to confront the challenges
and embrace the opportunities of a globalised world economy.
Environment
New Zealand’s natural environment is the foundation of not only our economy
but also our sense of identity.
Our vision is to ensure our natural environment remains healthy so that it will
continue to provide us with the essential resources that underpin a thriving and
prosperous New Zealand. Focussing principally on conservation, there are many
threats to be managed or overcome such as habitat loss, introduced predators,
urbanisation and water use.
In doing so, we aim to preserve New Zealand for tomorrow’s generations.
Where Kiwi and other iconic native birds still exist in the wild, not just in online
image galleries. Where our native forests welcome the day with a chorus of bird
song. Where our children and their children can safely swim in clean lakes and
rivers. Where our natural heritage and culture are preserved for all.
11
Funding for biodiversity, environmental enhancement, and sustainability projects: 4 June 2014
Funding for community groups

Name and website or contact details
Biodiversity Fund (Ecan)
http://ecan.govt.nz/advice/biodiversity/funding/Page
s/funding-form.aspx
Contact biodiversity@ecan.govt.nz
Lottery grants
http://www.communitymatters.govt.nz/Funding-andgrants---Lottery-grants---Lottery-Environment-andHeritage#natural
More Information
Dates for grant
applications
Criteria: Individuals, landowners, community and conservation groups, schools
and recreational groups proposing projects that enhance native
biodiversity,(native flora and fauna, and are environmentally sustainable.
Representativeness: the extent to which an area represents a habitat type or
ecosystem that is typical of the area concerned;
Ecological context: projects must provide a benefit to indigenous biodiversity
and play an important role in the health of the wider ecosystem long-term.
Geographic spread: the aim will be to ensure a fair distribution of projects
across the region;
Land ownership: proposed projects should generally be on private, customary
or coastal land
Project ownership: projects undertaken by groups need clearly identified
leadership.
Maximum
amount is
$20,000 per
project.
Applications
received all year
round,
Considered 30
April and 30
September.
Natural Heritage projects
 the purchase of project materials
 applied research with a clear community benefit
 ecological restoration projects in various habitats including, but not
limited to: wetlands, forests, riparian margins, freshwater, marine,
alpine and grassland habitats
 pest and predator management programmes, including plans, consents
and signage costs and associated transport costs, such as helicopter
drops
 the preparation of project specific plans, such as ecological restoration ,
management plans and feasibility studies (see the Cultural Heritage
Projects section for the necessary requirements)
 monitoring
 project-related salaries, including project management
 the establishment of native plant nurseries. These must form part of a
Can be over
$100,000
subject to
feasibility study
ect. Also small
amounts for
small projects
2 July 2014
26 November
2014
12
Funding for biodiversity, environmental enhancement, and sustainability projects: 4 June 2014






wider ecological restoration project, which will be assessed as above.
The nursery must produce locally eco-sourced plants and have suitably
qualified employees
non-administrative, project-related costs associated with volunteers
breeding programmes, including native animal release programmes and
captive programmes
education programmes and materials such as publications and
education kits (there are restrictions on educational funding). Please
read What we do not fund
awareness-raising and interpretation materials including but not limited
to: brochures, markers, information panels, project-related website
development (subject to assurance that the applicant has the financial
ability and expertise to continue to maintain the website) and research,
writing and publication projects (see the Cultural Heritage Projects
section for the necessary requirements)
walkways, bridges and boardwalks when these meet one of the four
priority areas, such as the protection or promotion of issues affecting
New Zealand’s native flora and fauna
research and graphic design (but excluding concept and structural
design) of interpretive material including brochures and panels, projectrelated website development, the construction of interpretive panels
and printing of brochures or booklets.
Priority is given to projects which:
 conserve New Zealand’s native flora and fauna
 conserve significant or threatened habitats and eco-systems
 conserve rare, endangered or threatened species in their natural
habitat
 improve public education and awareness of issues affecting our native
flora and fauna
On private land priority is given to projects:
 where the natural heritage value of the land is protected by a
covenant/kawenata on the land title (this ensures that the natural
heritage value of the land will be protected even if the land is sold)
 which provide public access, where appropriate
13
Funding for biodiversity, environmental enhancement, and sustainability projects: 4 June 2014
Canterbury Community Trust
http://www.commtrust.org.nz
Download application forms and ‘how to apply’:
http://www.commtrust.org.nz/application-forms
Incorporated societies or registered charitable trusts of community based
organisations are eligible to apply for the Canterbury Community Trust
donations. This means that your group must have a Certificate of Incorporation
obtained through the Ministry of Economic Development. You may also obtain
charitable organisation status through the Charities Commission, which is
administered by the Department of Internal Affairs. Schools, NZ Free
Kindergarten Assn. Members and Churches are not required to supply a copy of
the letter granting charitable status.
20 September
2014
Organisations may only submit one application per year. All groups within an
organisation or association should consolidate their request into one
application. While several needs might be expressed, they should be listed in
priority order. Funding of any request is not guaranteed.
Omihi School, for example, recently received 6 ipads.
World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Habitat Protection Fund
http://www.wwf.org.nz/what_we_do/community_fu
nding/habitat_protection_fund/
Note: The Tindall Foundation also uses WWF as their
funding manager for environmental education
Criteria: Gives preference to projects working to protect areas of high
conservation value. The priorities this coming year are:
 Areas with an active community involvement in conservation
 Freshwater environments and their catchments
 Coastal and dune systems
 Wetlands and estuaries
 Lowland and coastal forest communities
 Habitats of threatened indigenous species
Open 1 July
2014. Maximum
$10,000
YES! They will fund for capital works and wages! WWF are very flexible as
they realise conservation is a complex issue.
The Tindall Foundation
http://www.tindall.org.nz/caring-about-theenvironment
Contact: 09 4880170 or email
Helping people to be aware of, to develop and use ways of living that protect,
restore and enhance the environment.
There are two relevant grant schemes for community groups:
1. Environmental Education (http://www.tindall.org.nz/environmentaleducation ) - Education, especially of the younger generation, appears
to be the most promising medium to support the long-term hope of
14
Funding for biodiversity, environmental enhancement, and sustainability projects: 4 June 2014
admin.ttf@tindall.org.nz
enhancing the environment, achieving sustainability and preserving
biodiversity. The Foundation can provide limited support to credible
providers to deliver targeted education, especially those not supported
by government or other funders. Small local initiatives in schools or the
community can be applied for through a dedicated Funding Manager.
2. Habitat Protection and Restoration (http://www.tindall.org.nz/habitatprotection-restoration/) Most of New Zealand's unique habitats and
biodiversity have already been destroyed and many of those remaining
are endangered by development, pollution, pests and competition from
introduced species. Major government and local body efforts are
stretched to halt this degradation but many local voluntary groups and
schools are active in protecting, restoring and enhancing their local
environments and preserving biodiversity. With a little outside input in
the form of small donations, support and networking, these groups can
expand, become sustainable and achieve much. The Foundation aims
to maintain support for a targeted contestable Fund operated by a
credible organisation to provide services to these groups, and
encourage greater impact and sustainability of projects through
elements like capacity-building and adding local value.
3. Environmental Sustainability (
http://www.tindall.org.nz/environmental-sustainability/) Achievement
of an environmentally sustainable New Zealand is a long-term goal that
can only be brought about by changes in attitudes and behaviours
across all aspects of New Zealand society including individuals,
communities, business, manufacturing and government. People are
generally unwilling to accept a fall in living standards to accommodate
sustainable living and new or adapted technologies are required in
some areas before this can be achieved. To make progress, changes in
adult behaviour are required and therefore education efforts must be
focussed on the adult public as well as in schools and universities. This
needs to be paralleled by changes in products and processes and more
sophisticated marketing analysis and information. Most people have
some understanding of key sustainability issues and many are ready
15
Funding for biodiversity, environmental enhancement, and sustainability projects: 4 June 2014
and willing to take individual easy steps to address them when they are
shown how to do so. A small improvement adopted across most of the
nation will have a far greater impact than larger improvements
achieved by a small group.
The Tindall Foundation will only fund initiatives whose primary
objective is 'environmental sustainability’ under this strategy and will
show preference for a limited number of initiatives that:
 will achieve the largest possible scale of change
 show leadership and provide frameworks and/or action steps
that can be taken by groups or larger communities;
 are well-managed and clearly communicate their goals to
maximise the likely success of achieving change;
 support the development of new technologies to support
sustainable living;
 have broad-based, committed support from key stakeholders
and funders.
EcoGecko Consultants
http://www.ecogecko.co.nz
Sabine Melzer sabine@ecogecko.co.nz
(+64) 027-341-7373/ (+64) 06-758-8771
Criteria: availability updated yearly. Up to $1,000 available in the community
group category. Please check by emailing as their website does not contain
much information on this.
Ministry for the Environment Community
Environment Fund
Criteria: The Community Environment Fund (CEF) provides funding so New
Zealanders are empowered to take environmental action. It also ensures:
 partnerships (relating to practical environmental initiatives) between
interested parties are supported and strengthened
 community-based advice and educational opportunities are increased
 awareness on environmental legislation and issues is heightened
http://www.mfe.govt.nz/withyou/funding/communit
y-environment-fund
Phone: 0800 499 700
Email:funds@mfe.govt.nz
From $10,000 $300,000
Closes 09 June
2014

To apply for funding:
1. Register your organisation by using the portal
2. Complete the online eligibility check for open and contestable funding
rounds on the portal. You will need to complete one check for each
application you intend to submit.
3. The Ministry will assess the eligibility of your project. If eligible, you will
be sent an application form.
16
Funding for biodiversity, environmental enhancement, and sustainability projects: 4 June 2014
Honda Tree Fund
http://ecan.govt.nz/advice/biodiversity/funding/page
s/hondatreefund.aspx
Mazda Foundation
http://www.mazdafoundation.org.nz/#/grantGuidelin
es
Criteria: Ten native trees are funded for every new car that Honda New Zealand
sells, with another three funded by your local Honda dealer. These funds are
awarded to Regional Councils throughout the country to assist with native
plantings. In 2011/12 $23,810 from the Honda TreeFund was awarded to the
Canterbury region to the best community-based native planting projects.
See contact
details
A good example of an environmental funding request comes from Save the
Otago Peninsular (http://www.mazdafoundation.org.nz/#/grantRecipients click on the image of the jewelled gecko). The wording in the application
included a short but clearly stated objective, details of how the funds would be
used to further that (hoped) objective, and why the objective was important:
planting native trees to continue enhancing an environment suitable for
jewelled geckos. Simple and to the point.
Closes
30 June 2014
30 September
2014
30 March 2015
Recipients in 2013 included Marlborough Falcon Conservation Trust, and
Wellington Zoo (Tuatara Conservation).
Air New Zealand Environment Trust
http://airnzenvironmenttrust.org.nz
Contact: admin@airnzenvironmenttrust.org.nz
Criteria: The Air New Zealand Environment Trust (ANZET) will consider funding
projects that have a direct impact on the restoration of the New Zealand
environment. This can cover a wide range of activities from directly restoring or
regenerating land or waterways, through to education and research.
Closed for 2014
– open again in
2015
ANZET prefers to fund specific projects and will not fund existing organisations
to run day to day programmes. All funding applications must be submitted
using the Trust's application form. ANZET will consider projects in excess of
$10,000 only.
To be considered for funding your project must:






meet the Trust's funding criteria
have an environmental focus which concentrates on restoration
benefit a wide group of New Zealanders
advance awareness of environmental issues in New Zealand
be able to provide regular reports on activity and application of any
funds granted
be based in New Zealand
17
Funding for biodiversity, environmental enhancement, and sustainability projects: 4 June 2014
Fonterra Grass Roots Fund
http://www.fonterra.com/global/en/Sustainability/Co
mmunity/Grassroots+Fund
Criteria: To be considered for support, your initiative or activity must fit within
the sponsorship categories and meet criteria outlined below.
Category 2. Caring for our Environment. We take care of the environment by
supporting sustainable initiatives. Examples of previous environment
sponsorships in this category include:





Community Conservation Partnerships Fund - Pūtea
Tautiaki Hapori
http://www.doc.govt.nz/getting-involved/run-aproject/funding/community-conservationpartnerships-fund /
Contact:
Fund Advisor
National Office
Department of Conservation
18-32 Manners Street
PO Box 10-420
Wellington 6143
Usually March &
September each
year
Sponsoring environmental projects such as
landscaping/developing/cleaning a local park
Recycling and environmental educational programmes
Supporting school environmental initiatives, for example worm farms,
vegetable gardens etc
Riparian planting projects
Equipment to be used to enhance the environment
The Department of Conservation Community Conservation Partnerships Fund Pūtea Tautiaki Hapori provides funding to community-led conservation groups
for natural heritage and recreation projects in New Zealand on public and
private land and waters.
Criteria: Aims to improve and maintain the condition of areas of indigenous
vegetation, species and habitats, including wetlands and other freshwater
ecosystems. The fund seeks to broaden community effort in the management
of indigenous biodiversity, and to complement other contributions for its
enhancement.
Projects could involve:
 fencing
 weed control
 restoration planting
 pest control
Applications are invited from private landowners and community groups for
projects aimed at improving or maintaining the condition of indigenous
vegetation, species and habitats.
Open early 2015
18
Funding for biodiversity, environmental enhancement, and sustainability projects: 4 June 2014
Nature Heritage Fund
http://www.doc.govt.nz/gettinginvolved/volunteer-join-or-start-a-project/start-orfund-a-project/funding/nature-heritage-fund
Contact:
The Executive Officer
Nature Heritage Fund
PO Box 10-420
Wellington
Tel: +64 4 471 0726 or Fax +64 4 471-3018
Email NHF-Admin@doc.govt.nz
The Nature Heritage Fund protects ecosystems that represent the full range of
natural diversity originally present in the New Zealand landscape by providing
incentives for voluntary conservation on private land.
The Nature Heritage Fund helps meet the cost of protecting areas of high
ecological value on private land by providing contestable finance for projects
that protect ecosystems either by direct purchase, or covenant.
Applications can be made to the Nature Heritage Fund by:
 private landowners,
 local and regional government bodies, and local authority trading
enterprises,
 professional and community-based organisations
 local, regional, and national “umbrella” organisations, and
 non-government organisations (NGOs),
 central government departments and agencies
10 February
30 April
31 July
31 October
Applications must be on the Fund’s application form accompanied by the
supporting material specified on the form.
Project Crimson
http://www.projectcrimson.org.nz/funding/page.aspx
World Wildlife Fund Environmental Education Action
Fund
http://www.wwf.org.nz/what_we_do/community_fu
nding/funding_for_schools/
Contact: Jenny Lynch
Community Conservation Co-ordinator
Ph: 0800 4357 993.
Criteria: Community and volunteer support is vital to Project Crimson's success.
The Trust works with organisations, communities and individuals throughout
New Zealand and assists them by providing funding and trees for local projects.
If you have a project that features pohutukawa (NOT IN THE SOUTH ISLAND!
IT’S REGARDED AS A PEST SPECIES!) or rata that could benefit from the
expertise or funding from Project Crimson, then please email information
regarding your project to info@projectcrimson.org.nz
To be considered, the project must provide long-term benefits to the local
environment and provide tangible evidence of effective resource management.
Criteria: Preference is given to projects that:




Have clearly defined learning outcomes aimed to address a specific
environmental issue or issues
Facilitate, support or promote opportunities for people to take action
for their environment
Have sound project planning and evaluation processes
Provide evidence of strong community support
Open 1 July
2014. Maximum
$10,000
19
Funding for biodiversity, environmental enhancement, and sustainability projects: 4 June 2014


Enable teachers to deliver environmental education programmes as
outlined in the Guidelines for Environmental education in New Zealand
Schools (Ministry of Education, 1999)
Schools and community groups in New Zealand can apply; preference is
given to those with IRD charitable status.
Note
The fund is about taking action. There is no funding for awareness,
landscaping/ground maintenance, eco/enviro centre buildings, overseas travel,
research projects or government authorities.
Sargood Bequest
http://www.sargoodbequest.org.nz/
Criteria: Makes grants mostly under $5000 to projects and activities in the
environmental areas with a focus on access, participation and inspiration.
Weedbusters Small Scale Initiative Funding
Criteria: The Weedbusters small-scale initiative fund, supported by individual
regional councils, unitary authorities, and Department of Conservation,
provides funds for Weedbusters groups to cover ‘small scale’ costs such as
tools, herbicides, mulcher hire, greenwaste disposal, promotional activities
within communities to get Weedbusters groups off the ground, and so on.
Funding is on application rather than contestable, with a limited pool of funds
($2000) available in each area in each financial year.
Criteria for funding applications to be considered:
 Groups or individuals must have registered as Weedbusters through
www.weedbusters.org.nz
 Projects can be on public land, or on private land where two or more
landowners are working together to clear areas of weeds by either
targeting specific high-risk species or as part of a wider restoration
project. The project is not to be based in private gardens (not including
undeveloped gullies) or on productive farmland.
http://weedbusters.co.nz/funding/initiative_fund.asp
Contact Environment Canterbury:
info@weedbusters.org.nz
Transpower Community Care
https://www.transpower.co.nz/communityinitiatives/communitycare-fund/apply-
Criteria: Available to all regions affected by Transpower assets or projects. Eg, Waikato District Council, Huntly, received- $65,000 towards planting of
wetlands and building boardwalks.
Closes 31
December
annually
31 July 2014
31 January 2015
20
Funding for biodiversity, environmental enhancement, and sustainability projects: 4 June 2014
communitycare-fund
Purposes funded: The CommunityCare Fund will consider funding for:
* projects in communities in close proximity to the grid and who are affected by
Transpower assets (transmission lines, transmission towers and substations),
maintenance works or projects
* One-off projects between $5,000 and $50,000
* lasting projects that benefit the wider community, for example, capital works
that can be enjoyed by the whole community
* projects that have a high level of community involvement and participation
* committed projects that have already raised some funds from other sources.
MainPower Hurunui Natural Environment Fund
http://www.hurunui.govt.nz/services/awards-andfunds/mainpower-hurunui-natural-environment-fund
/
The Working Together More Fund
http://www.workingtogether.org.nz/
Criteria: The purpose of the fund is to encourage and assist with voluntary work
that benefits the natural environment. The focus is on work that improves,
benefits, enhances, restores or reinstates indigenous natural resources – in
particular, land, vegetation, wetlands or bird habitat.
The fund is open only to residents and ratepayers of the Hurunui District –
individuals or groups – for work relating to either private or public land.
It is a contestable fund, in which there is $10,000. Of that sum, $7,000 is
earmarked for projects that are protecting existing areas, and $3,000 for
projects creating new areas. Applications will be assessed by decision makers
who are wholly independent of Council. The fund is not available:
 For work that there is a legal obligation to do;
 To compensate for work already done. It is intended to assist with the
cost of future work;
 For the entire cost of a project. It will complement the applicant’s
contributions;
 For beautification projects, or to support those driven primarily for
financial gain
A combined fund from the Todd Foundation, Tindall Foundation, Wayne
Francis Charitable Trust, J R McKenzie Charitable Trust & the Hugh Green
Foundation. This is for community groups who are interested in working
together more closely to make a greater difference for the people and
communities they serve. The fund can provide seeding money and
expertise to develop collaborative arrangements but does not provide
April 2015
11 July 2014
31 October 2014
21
Funding for biodiversity, environmental enhancement, and sustainability projects: 4 June 2014
ongoing operating costs.
· The fund was established to encourage collaboration as a way of
achieving great results. The lead applicant needs to be a not-for-profit
applicant and to partner with at least one other business, group or
community organisation – or be seeking funding to explore potential
partnerships
· New projects - the purpose of the fund is to help new collaborative
projects or partnerships get off the ground
The Lion Foundation
www.lionfoundation.org.nz
Funded by revenue from gaming, the foundation supports community groups in
a broad range of endeavours. In the Hurunui, funds have historically gone to
sporting activities, but this is largely because they are the groups that apply.
Funds can also go to educational and community groups for one-off projects.
All year - takes
around 8 weeks
following
application
Techsoup
Through the TechSoup New Zealand programme, eligible not-for-profits can:
 Get access to donated products from partners such as Microsoft,
Symantec and SAP
 Also find not-for-profit discounted pricing on refurbished computers
and a wide range of software
 Learn more about technology for your organisation through events and
how-to articles offered by Connecting Up
All year
NEXT Foundation’s vision is to create a legacy of environmental and
educational excellence for the benefit of future generations of New
Zealanders.
Education and the environment have been chosen as the two categories for
support and investment because we consider that they have the greatest
potential to inspire and create lasting value for New Zealanders.
Education
By supporting and investing in aspirational education projects, we aim to
empower young people today and the leaders of tomorrow. Education opens
11 July 2014
http://www.techsoup.net.nz/
NEXT Foundation
http://nextfoundation.org.nz
22
Funding for biodiversity, environmental enhancement, and sustainability projects: 4 June 2014
the door to personal development, economic opportunity and innovation for
society as a whole. New Zealand has an excellent education system, but there
are a wide range of initiatives that can drive higher achievement and outcomes,
including innovative projects at the edges of traditional systems.
We will invest in projects that strive for educational excellence to provide all
New Zealanders with the opportunity to fulfil their potential and develop into
talented individuals with the skills and confidence to confront the challenges
and embrace the opportunities of a globalised world economy.
Environment
New Zealand’s natural environment is the foundation of not only our economy
but also our sense of identity.
Our vision is to ensure our natural environment remains healthy so that it will
continue to provide us with the essential resources that underpin a thriving and
prosperous New Zealand. Focussing principally on conservation, there are many
threats to be managed or overcome such as habitat loss, introduced predators,
urbanisation and water use.
In doing so, we aim to preserve New Zealand for tomorrow’s generations.
Where Kiwi and other iconic native birds still exist in the wild, not just in online
image galleries. Where our native forests welcome the day with a chorus of bird
song. Where our children and their children can safely swim in clean lakes and
rivers. Where our natural heritage and culture are preserved for all.
23
Funding for biodiversity, environmental enhancement, and sustainability projects: 4 June 2014
Funding for schools

Name and website or contact details
Biodiversity Fund (Ecan)
http://ecan.govt.nz/advice/biodiversity/funding/Page
s/funding-form.aspx
Contact biodiversity@ecan.govt.nz
The Tindall Foundation
http://www.tindall.org.nz/caring-about-theenvironment
Contact: 09 4880170 or email
admin.ttf@tindall.org.nz
Canterbury Community Trust
http://www.commtrust.org.nz
More Information
Dates for grant
applications
Criteria: Individuals, landowners, community and conservation groups, schools
and recreational groups proposing projects that enhance native
biodiversity,(native flora and fauna, and are environmentally sustainable.
Representativeness: the extent to which an area represents a habitat type or
ecosystem that is typical of the area concerned;
Ecological context: projects must provide a benefit to indigenous biodiversity
and play an important role in the health of the wider ecosystem long-term.
Geographic spread: the aim will be to ensure a fair distribution of projects
across the region;
Land ownership: proposed projects should generally be on private, customary
or coastal land
Project ownership: projects undertaken by groups need clearly identified
leadership.
Maximum
amount is
$20,000 per
project.
Applications
received all year
round,
Considered 30
April and 30
September.
Helping people to be aware of, to develop and use ways of living that protect,
restore and enhance the environment.
There is one relevant grant schemes for schools:
Environmental Education (http://www.tindall.org.nz/environmentaleducation ) - Education, especially of the younger generation, appears
to be the most promising medium to support the long-term hope of
enhancing the environment, achieving sustainability and preserving
biodiversity. The Foundation can provide limited support to credible
providers to deliver targeted education, especially those not supported
by government or other funders. Small local initiatives in schools or the
community can be applied for through a dedicated Funding Manager.
Incorporated societies or registered charitable trusts of community based
organisations are eligible to apply for the Canterbury Community Trust
donations. This means that your group must have a Certificate of Incorporation
20 September
2014
24
Funding for biodiversity, environmental enhancement, and sustainability projects: 4 June 2014
Download application forms and ‘how to apply’:
http://www.commtrust.org.nz/application-forms
obtained through the Ministry of Economic Development. You may also obtain
charitable organisation status through the Charities Commission, which is
administered by the Department of Internal Affairs. Schools, NZ Free
Kindergarten Assn. Members and Churches are not required to supply a copy of
the letter granting charitable status.
Organisations may only submit one application per year. All groups within an
organisation or association should consolidate their request into one
application. While several needs might be expressed, they should be listed in
priority order. Funding of any request is not guaranteed.
Omihi School, for example, recently received 6 ipads, while the Nina Valley
Ecoblitz (www.ninavalleyecoblitz.com) received over $15,000 for operation
expenses for the weekend.
World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Habitat Protection Fund
http://www.wwf.org.nz/what_we_do/community_fu
nding/habitat_protection_fund/
Note: The Tindall Foundation also uses WWF as their
funding manager for environmental education
Ministry for the Environment Community
Environment Fund
http://www.mfe.govt.nz/withyou/funding/communit
y-environment-fund
Phone: 0800 499 700
Email:funds@mfe.govt.nz
Criteria: Gives preference to projects working to protect areas of high
conservation value. The priorities this coming year are:
 Areas with an active community involvement in conservation
 Freshwater environments and their catchments
 Coastal and dune systems
 Wetlands and estuaries
 Lowland and coastal forest communities
 Habitats of threatened indigenous species
Open 1 July
2014. Maximum
$10,000
Criteria: The Community Environment Fund (CEF) provides funding so New
Zealanders are empowered to take environmental action. It also ensures:
 partnerships (relating to practical environmental initiatives) between
interested parties are supported and strengthened
 community-based advice and educational opportunities are increased
 awareness on environmental legislation and issues is heightened
From $10,000 $300,000
Closes 09 June
2014

To apply for funding:
4. Register your organisation by using the portal
5. Complete the online eligibility check for open and contestable funding
rounds on the portal. You will need to complete one check for each
25
Funding for biodiversity, environmental enhancement, and sustainability projects: 4 June 2014
application you intend to submit.
6. The Ministry will assess the eligibility of your project. If eligible, you will
be sent an application form.
Honda Tree Fund for Schools
http://ecan.govt.nz/advice/biodiversity/funding/Page
s/honda-tree-fund-schools.aspx
Contact Sian Carvell,
Education for Sustainability Team Leader
ph 0800 324 636.
World Wildlife Fund Environmental Education Action
Fund (this is not the same as the above Habitat
Protection
Fund)http://www.wwf.org.nz/what_we_do/communi
ty_funding/funding_for_schools/
For more information, please contact Jenny Lynch,
Community Conservation Co-ordinator or phone 04
815 8526.
Criteria: $10,000 will be available annually from the Honda TreeFund to assist
in planting projects identified by schools involved in Environment Canterbury's
Water, and Pests and Biodiversity education programmes.
Schools can apply for up to $1000.00 each.
For more information about applying, please download the teacher support
notes and application form.
See contact
details
Criteria: Preference is given to projects that:
Open 1 July
2014. Maximum
$10,000






Have clearly defined learning outcomes aimed to address a specific
environmental issue or issues
Facilitate, support or promote opportunities for people to take action
for their environment
Have sound project planning and evaluation processes
Provide evidence of strong community support
Enable teachers to deliver environmental education programmes as
outlined in the Guidelines for Environmental education in New Zealand
Schools (Ministry of Education, 1999)
Schools and community groups in New Zealand can apply; preference is
given to those with IRD charitable status.
Note
The fund is about taking action. There is no funding for awareness,
landscaping/ground maintenance, eco/enviro centre buildings, overseas travel,
research projects or government authorities.
Fonterra Grass Roots Fund
http://www.fonterra.com/global/en/Sustainability/Co
mmunity/Grassroots+Fund
Criteria: To be considered for support, your initiative or activity must fit within
the sponsorship categories and meet criteria outlined below.
Category 2. Caring for our Environment. We take care of the environment by
supporting sustainable initiatives. Examples of previous environment
Usually March &
September each
year
26
Funding for biodiversity, environmental enhancement, and sustainability projects: 4 June 2014
sponsorships in this category include:





Sponsoring environmental projects such as
landscaping/developing/cleaning a local park
Recycling and environmental educational programmes
Supporting school environmental initiatives, for example worm farms,
vegetable gardens etc
Riparian planting projects
Equipment to be used to enhance the environment
Sargood Bequest
http://www.sargoodbequest.org.nz/
Criteria: Makes grants to projects and activities in the children & youth,
cultural, sports & outdoors, educational and environmental areas with a focus
on access, participation and inspiration.
Project Crimson
http://www.projectcrimson.org.nz/funding/page.aspx
Criteria: Community and volunteer support is vital to Project Crimson's success.
The Trust works with organisations, communities and individuals throughout
New Zealand and assists them by providing funding and trees for local projects.
If you have a project that features pohutukawa (NOT IN THE SOUTH ISLAND!
IT’S REGARDED AS A PEST SPECIES!) or rata that could benefit from the
expertise or funding from Project Crimson, then please email information
regarding your project to info@projectcrimson.org.nz
To be considered, the project must provide long-term benefits to the local
environment and provide tangible evidence of effective resource management.
EcoGecko Consultants
http://www.ecogecko.co.nz
Sabine Melzer sabine@ecogecko.co.nz
(+64) 027-341-7373/ (+64) 06-758-8771
Criteria: availability updated yearly. Up to $1,000 available for students.
Please contact them directly as there is not much information on funding on
their website.
BOC Where There's Water Community
Environmental Grants: http://www.waternz.org.nz/
Schools have been funded for projects such as rubbish bags and skips to clean
up a stream, water testing kits, manuals and native plants as part of an
Closes 31
December
annually
Not specified.
27
Funding for biodiversity, environmental enhancement, and sustainability projects: 4 June 2014
Contact: peter.whitehouse@waternz.org.nz
education programme, and a community group was awarded funds for
earthworks, fencing, a pathway. However, I can no longer find anything on their
revamped website about this, so I recommend emailing them.
The Trusts Community Foundation
http://www.ttcfltd.org.nz/authorised-purposes
Proceeds from gaming machines
Criteria: for schools, endorsement from the Principal, on school letterhead.
This can include building works for schools, activities and trips, specialised
equipment, above and beyond what would normally be provided for by the
Ministry of Education, scholarships (only supported in areas where TTCF
members are located)
The 10th of
every month
except for
December.
The Brian Mason Scientific & Technical Trust
Accepts applications from any organisation as long as the proposal fits with the
goals of the Trust. Successful applications have come from universities, Crown
Research Institutes, museums, restoration & preservation societies, education
societies, consultancies, individuals. Findings must be made widely available.
Project goals can include scientific research, development work, collation,
storage of information, publication and demonstration of scientific or
technology principles. The project must be focused on Canterbury and/or
Westland. Examples that schools might apply for are scientific or technological
equipment such as iPads to assess and monitor changes in an area’s
biodiversity, as part of the curriculum.
30 March 2015
Think outside the square, this might include mapping the location of and results
of trapping pest animals, or mapping biodiversity projects within schools at
naturewatch.org, which was itself a beneficiary of this Trust.
Weedbusters Small Scale Initiative Funding
http://weedbusters.co.nz/funding/initiative_fund.asp
Contact Environment Canterbury:
info@weedbusters.org.nz
Criteria: The Weedbusters small-scale initiative fund, supported by individual
regional councils, unitary authorities, and Department of Conservation,
provides funds for Weedbusters groups to cover ‘small scale’ costs such as
tools, herbicides, mulcher hire, greenwaste disposal, promotional activities
within communities to get Weedbusters groups off the ground, and so on.
Funding is on application rather than contestable, with a limited pool of funds
($2000) available in each area in each financial year.
Criteria for funding applications to be considered:
 Groups or individuals must have registered as Weedbusters through
28
Funding for biodiversity, environmental enhancement, and sustainability projects: 4 June 2014

www.weedbusters.org.nz
Projects can be on public land, or on private land where two or more
landowners are working together to clear areas of weeds by either
targeting specific high-risk species or as part of a wider restoration
project. The project is not to be based in private gardens (not including
undeveloped gullies) or on productive farmland.
JS Watson Trust (administered by Forest & Bird)
http://www.forestandbird.org.nz/what-wedo/partnerships/js-watson-trust
Criteria: The conservation of plants and animals and natural features of New
Zealand. This trust is best suited to university postgraduate students
 The advancement of knowledge in these matters by way of research,
literary contribution, essay or articles, or other effort
 General education of the public to give them an understanding and love
of the world in which they live
April 2015
Recycle Glass
http://www.recycleglass.co.nz/fund.htm
The Fund was established in 1983 to give students an opportunity to undertake
environmental studies.
These studies benefit the whole community and, in particular, give students an
insight into the range of environmental issues facing our country and the world.
31 March 2015
Criteria: Primarily for schools, applications should meet as many of the
following criteria as possible:







Develop students’ awareness of and sensitivity to the environment
Develop students’ knowledge and understanding of the environment
and the impact of people on it (the key concepts of interdependence,
sustainability and biodiversity could be addressed here)
Develop attitudes and values reflecting concern for the environment
Develop skills in identifying, investigating and problem solving
associated with environmental issues
Stimulate responsibility for participation and action for the
environment
Co-ordinate and/or co-operate with local community initiatives and
organisations benefiting the school and if possible the community
Show, where possible, how the success of the project will be measured
29
Funding for biodiversity, environmental enhancement, and sustainability projects: 4 June 2014
12 September
2014
Royal Society of New Zealand Bayer Primary School
Science Fund
http://www.royalsociety.org.nz/programmes/funds/b
ayer-primary-school-science-fund/
Criteria: Request must directly benefit your teaching of science ‘nature of
science’ and environmental science teaching.
Kids Restore New Zealand
http://www.kidsrestorenz.org.nz
Air New Zealand’s Kids restore New Zealand is your chance to make a real
difference to the future of our environment and ensure that our land, animals,
insects and birds are protected.
Open now
MainPower Hurunui Natural Environment Fund
Criteria: The purpose of the fund is to encourage and assist with voluntary work
that benefits the natural environment. The focus is on work that improves,
benefits, enhances, restores or reinstates indigenous natural resources – in
particular, land, vegetation, wetlands or bird habitat.
April 2015
http://www.hurunui.govt.nz/services/awards-andfunds/mainpower-hurunui-natural-environment-fund
/
The Lion Foundation
www.lionfoundation.org.nz
Examples of things that have been funded: Small gardening equipment items;
Stream Health Monitoring Kits; Native Trees and plants to enhance an existing
learning and teaching programme; Microscopes; small science equipment
items; planting kits; weather station kits; worm farm equipment; books to
support an existing learning and teaching programme e.g. climate change.
The fund is open only to residents and ratepayers of the Hurunui District –
individuals or groups – for work relating to either private or public land.
It is a contestable fund, in which there is $10,000.00. Of that sum, $7,000 is
earmarked for projects that are protecting existing areas, and $3,000 for
projects creating new areas. Applications will be assessed by decision makers
who are wholly independent of Council. The fund is not available:
 For work that there is a legal obligation to do;
 To compensate for work already done. It is intended to assist with the
cost of future work;
 For the entire cost of a project. It will complement the applicant’s
contributions;
 For beautification projects, or to support those driven primarily for
financial gain
Funded by revenue from gaming, the foundation supports community groups in
a broad range of endeavours. In the Hurunui, funds have historically gone to
sporting activities, but this is largely because they are the groups that apply.
All year - takes
around 8 weeks
following
30
Funding for biodiversity, environmental enhancement, and sustainability projects: 4 June 2014
Funds can also go to educational and community groups for one-off projects.
Community Conservation Partnerships Fund - Pūtea
Tautiaki Hapori
http://www.doc.govt.nz/getting-involved/run-aproject/funding/community-conservationpartnerships-fund /
Contact:
Fund Advisor
National Office
Department of Conservation
18-32 Manners Street
PO Box 10-420
Wellington 6143
NEXT Foundation
http://nextfoundation.org.nz
The Department of Conservation Community Conservation Partnerships Fund Pūtea Tautiaki Hapori provides funding to community-led conservation groups
for natural heritage and recreation projects in New Zealand on public and
private land and waters.
Criteria: Aims to improve and maintain the condition of areas of indigenous
vegetation, species and habitats, including wetlands and other freshwater
ecosystems. The fund seeks to broaden community effort in the management
of indigenous biodiversity, and to complement other contributions for its
enhancement.
Projects could involve:
 fencing
 weed control
 restoration planting
 pest control
Applications are invited from private landowners and community groups for
projects aimed at improving or maintaining the condition of indigenous
vegetation, species and habitats.
NEXT Foundation’s vision is to create a legacy of environmental and educational
excellence for the benefit of future generations of New Zealanders.
Education and the environment have been chosen as the two categories for
support and investment because we consider that they have the greatest
potential to inspire and create lasting value for New Zealanders.
Education
By supporting and investing in aspirational education projects, we aim to
empower young people today and the leaders of tomorrow. Education opens
the door to personal development, economic opportunity and innovation for
society as a whole. New Zealand has an excellent education system, but there
are a wide range of initiatives that can drive higher achievement and outcomes,
including innovative projects at the edges of traditional systems.
We will invest in projects that strive for educational excellence to provide all
New Zealanders with the opportunity to fulfil their potential and develop into
talented individuals with the skills and confidence to confront the challenges
application
Open early 2015
11 July 2014
31
Funding for biodiversity, environmental enhancement, and sustainability projects: 4 June 2014
and embrace the opportunities of a globalised world economy.
Environment
New Zealand’s natural environment is the foundation of not only our economy
but also our sense of identity.
Our vision is to ensure our natural environment remains healthy so that it will
continue to provide us with the essential resources that underpin a thriving and
prosperous New Zealand. Focussing principally on conservation, there are many
threats to be managed or overcome such as habitat loss, introduced predators,
urbanisation and water use.
In doing so, we aim to preserve New Zealand for tomorrow’s generations.
Where Kiwi and other iconic native birds still exist in the wild, not just in online
image galleries. Where our native forests welcome the day with a chorus of bird
song. Where our children and their children can safely swim in clean lakes and
rivers. Where our natural heritage and culture are preserved for all.
32
Funding for biodiversity, environmental enhancement, and sustainability projects: 4 June 2014
A few tips when applying for funding
When applying for funding, you need to read and address all the criteria from each group carefully, as they all differ.
 Some organisations will not fund building materials, signage, or hire of contractors or plant equipment. Others will. Some have minimum amounts
you need to apply for as well as maximum amounts (it costs them the same to manage a small grant as a big grant). Some won’t pay wages but will
pay for contract work. Some require you to have partial funding from elsewhere—which you may already have, and don’t forget, this could also
mean ‘work in kind’. The time and effort you put into building fences, planting, or removing weeds and pests, is ‘work in kind’. 
 As many organisations only fund a portion of what you are seeking, apply for several simultaneously and include this information in your request,
detailing where else you are applying. If you are fortunate enough to be granted all the money you need for your particular project from one or two
organisations, then a third and fourth comes along, tell them you have sufficient and why, but also don’t be shy to add, ‘We’d really like to buy
another 30 plants/ soil testing kits/ books/ educational materials to fully develop the project and ensure it’s sustained over the next X years’, or
something along those lines. They can only say no, and they are very likely to say yes if you have a credible argument. 
 Be very specific about what you are seeking, why you want it, plus the all-important expected outcomes.
For example, if the organisation addresses your application in two rounds, in the first round you may need to state, for instance, you need 
$x for y native plants endemic to this region to continue a biodiversity trail that you or your community group or students began in 2010. Plus you
need $x for upgraded gardening equipment + $x for educational materials (ie, you are asking for plants + equipment + educational materials). In the
second round, you may need to itemise the types of plants, the exact equipment and educational materials plus detail the costs per item. Funding
bodies won’t generally fund projects that hinge on the recipient getting every single item on their long wish list. A school may end up with funding
for the plants but not the books, and maybe 10 sets of garden gloves. In other words, while you may want funding for three or four co-joined
projects, break up your requirements into semi-autonomous units, each of which can be managed and have a successful and measurable outcome
independent of the other units. You can then apply elsewhere for the additional items (see the Otago Peninsular grant application from Mazda.
They asked for funding just for trees to enhance an existent project). You are more likely to succeed because you already have a proven track
record. In the case of schools, this would be completing the foundation of biodiversity education—kids engaged in planting natives. 
 Start small if you haven’t applied before. For example, you may have plants but need equipment, or perhaps a small greenhouse to raise seedlings.
Be specific and be clear. 
 Use demonstrable criteria to give evidence to past activities (funded or unfunded) and expected outcomes of future activities, for example, you
want to fence off this waterway to keep livestock out of existent riparian native vegetation.
 Now, go back and re-read their criteria again to ensure you have answered all questions framed in the right way for each funding body to which you
are applying. Remember, one proposal does not fit all.
Fundview also has some great advice: http://www.fis.org.nz/index.php?page=FundView.
33
Funding for biodiversity, environmental enhancement, and sustainability projects: 4 June 2014
Competitions, Awards, and Scholarships
This is by no means comprehensive!








Waste recycling competition - nominate the best and also the best and worst packaging http://www.unpackit.org.nz/
http://www.motherearth.co.nz/reward/ (3 schools share $2,500)
Sustainability film challenge for teens and young adults up to 24 years old: http://www.theoutlookforsomeday.net/
BP Challenge http://www.royalsociety.org.nz/teaching-learning/bp-challenge/calendar
Zoo Challenge http://www.royalsociety.org.nz/teaching-learning/bp-challenge/zoo-challenge/year2013/
Royal Society Bayer Boost Environmental Scholarship Award http://www.bayerboost.co.nz/apply.html (Closes December 2013) requires students
to work on environmental research or restoration related projects with a host organisation. The student may be involved at whatever level is
appropriate to his or her skills and knowledge. List of potential host organisations: http://www.bayerboost.co.nz/hosts.html
NIWA $5,000 fisheries scholarships for undergraduates http://www.niwa.co.nz/education-and-training/scholarships . Applicants enrolled in a
minimum of 1 statistics or mathematics course in 2nd year, and 2 statistics or mathematics courses, as well as a marine biology course in 3rd year
are eligible and encouraged to apply.
Department of Conservation TFBIS - Terrestrial and Freshwater Biodiversity Information Systems Programme fund. supports the conservation of
New Zealand's indigenous biodiversity, by increasing awareness of and access to fundamental data and information about terrestrial and
freshwater biota and biodiversity. The Programme is one of a number of initiatives introduced in July 2000 to implement the Government's
commitment to achieving the goals of the New Zealand Biodiversity Strategy (NZBS]: http://www.doc.govt.nz/getting-involved/volunteer-join-orstart-a-project/start-or-fund-a-project/funding/tfbis-biodiversity-information-fund/

Useful Contacts
Sonny Whitelaw; Hurunui District Council Biodiversity Advisor biodiversity@hurunui.govt.nz | Ph: 03 3140019 or 027 5286975.
Jean-Marie Thompkins, Environment Canterbury Biodiversity Advisor jean-marie.thompkins@ecan.govt.nz Ph: 03 3653828 or 027-4756285.
Leslie Ottey, Community Educator, Mastagard, PO Box 4126 Christchurch. Ph: 0800627 824 | 029 770 6394 | email lottey@masragard.co.nz. Leslie has
some fantastic ideas, greening and gardening projects, and recycling resources for schools that can be incorporated into existing curriculums.
Jamie McFadden, Hurunui Natives – the ‘go to’ guy for advise and quotes on native and exotic plantings and landscaping. 24 Mina Rd, Cheviot, Ph: 033198152 or 027-321-8747.
34
Funding for biodiversity, environmental enhancement, and sustainability projects: 4 June 2014