Source: Ministry for Culture and Heritage
Applications are now open for the 2027 Commemorating Waitangi Day Fund, with up to $300,000 available to support community-led events.
Secretary for Culture and Heritage Leauanae Laulu Mac Leauanae today announced the contestable funding for events that bring communities together to mark the signing of Te Tiriti o Waitangi/The Treaty of Waitangi.
The Fund helps communities create opportunities for people to learn more about the Treaty, understand why it matters, and take part in Waitangi Day activities across Aotearoa New Zealand.
“Te Tiriti is a foundational part of our nation’s story, and Waitangi Day provides an opportunity for New Zealanders to come together to reflect on our shared history and future,” Mr Leauanae says.
“Communities around the country commemorate Waitangi Day in diverse ways, from educational programmes and cultural performances to family-friendly festivals and local celebrations. This Fund helps make those events possible.”
Mr Leauanae says a change has been made to the 2027 funding round so support can reach more communities.
“To help distribute funding more widely and evenly across the country, individual grants will now be capped at $7,500.
“This change will enable more organisations to access funding, creating more opportunities for New Zealanders to participate in Waitangi Day events and activities in their local communities.
“In recent years, the Fund has supported a diverse range of initiatives that encourage learning, connection, and participation. We want to see even more communities benefiting from that support and finding meaningful ways to recognise Waitangi Day.”
Eligible organisations are encouraged to apply before applications close on Friday 16 October 2026.
For more information visit: https://www.mch.govt.nz/our-work/apply-funding/commemorating-waitangi-day-fund