We’re here to help community groups, rūnanga, and organisations take action for Waitaha Canterbury's environment. You can apply for contestable funding through our key funds or access other forms of support, such as event assistance, technical advice, or staff expertise.  

Which fund is right for me? 

Different funds support different types of environmental projects. Find the best fit — and if you’re unsure, we’re happy to help guide you. You can also familiarise yourself with the funding guide and checklist to understand what’s required before you apply.

Waitaha Action to Impact Fund (WAI Fund)

Best for projects that build environmental awareness, empower volunteers, or create visible community action. This might include projects that involve education, engagement, or community-led projects that cross multiple themes.

This fund could help community groups, rūnanga, and non-profit organisations deliver projects across Waitaha Canterbury that engage people in action on the ground, build capacity, and deliver tangible outcomes.

Funding round opens 8 December 2025 and closes 15 February 2026

Learn more and apply →

Christchurch and Banks Peninsula Biodiversity Fund

Best for projects focused on protecting or restoring indigenous biodiversity habitats. 

This fund could support community groups, rūnanga, and non-profit organisations to deliver biodiversity outcomes such as pest control, habitat restoration, and ecological resilience within Christchurch and Banks Peninsula.

Funding round opens 8 December 2025 and closes 15 February 2026

Learn more and apply →

CWMS Action Plan Fund

Best for projects that protect freshwater, restore habitats, or strengthen local water stewardship.

This fund could support you in taking practical action on water issues. It could help community groups, rūnanga, schools, landowners and non-profit organisations deliver real outcomes, engage the community, and build lasting local capability.

Funding round opens 8 December 2025 and closes 15 February 2026

Learn more and apply →

How to apply

  1. Check whether your project matches the objectives and eligibility criteria for one of our funds.
  2. Gather your key documents, project plan, budget, location details, and any permissions.
  3. Complete the relevant application form by the published deadline.

If you’d like help navigating the options or to discuss whether your project is suitable, please get in touch with us:

Other funding types

Even if your project doesn’t fit neatly into one of the funds, there are still ways we may assist:  

  • Community event assistance: If you’re planning a hui, workshop, field day, volunteer event, or conference, you can apply for financial support, in-kind support (equipment, venue, transport), or technical advice. Apply for funding. 
  • Additional funding and support options: If your project falls outside the criteria of our contestable funds, we can explore if it aligns with one of our priority programmes (e.g. native habitat restoration, mahinga kai, riparian planting). You may also request funding via our Annual Plan or Long-Term Plan processes.  
  • Facilitator or staff support:  For Canterbury Water Management Strategy-related projects, our facilitators will assist with connections, advice, and guidance.