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.

  Applications for the 2026–27 community funding are now open
Environment Canterbury’s community funds are open for applications from 1 September to 12 October 2026. Read the community funding guide and checklist.

Waitaha Action to Impact Fund (WAI Fund)

The WAI Fund supports community-led projects that align with the work of Environment Canterbury and build awareness, empower volunteers, and create positive action across Waitaha Canterbury.

Council allocated an extra $100,000 for 2026/27 (increasing the total amount from $300,000 to $400,000) specifically for on-the-ground biodiversity projects from across the region.

Learn more about the fund

Christchurch and Banks Peninsula Biodiversity Fund

This Christchurch and Banks Peninsula Biodiversity Fund supports community-led projects that protect and restore indigenous biodiversity across Christchurch and Banks Peninsula.

Learn more about the fund

CWMS Action Plan Fund

The CWMS Action Plan Fund supports practical projects that protect freshwater, restore habitats, and strengthen local water stewardship across Canterbury.

Learn more about the fund

How to apply

We’ve simplified the application process, and you now only need to complete one application for the fund/s you wish to apply for.

    1. Check whether your project matches the objectives and eligibility criteria for one of our funds using the funding guide and checklist.

    2. Gather your key documents, project plan, budget, location details, and any permissions.

    3. Complete the 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.  If you would like more information on this, please get in touch with communitygrants@ecan.govt.nz.