The MV Takitimu Charitable Trust will receive the largest distribution from the April funding round, with a grant of $21,356 to refurbish the hull of the MV Takitimu, Gisborne’s first pilot launch and tug.
With more than 100 years of service, the vessel is a taonga representing a significant part of the region’s history. Operated by a team of skilled volunteers, the MV Takitimu now serves as a passenger vessel for community sails, charter trips, private events, tourism, conservation projects and Search and Rescue services when required.
To ensure it stays afloat, the refurbishment will involve lifting the boat out of the water, sandblasting it, repainting it, and reapplying anti-foul to protect the hull.
Other community fund recipients include:
- Stroke Aotearoa New Zealand: $15,000 to resource the Community Stroke Navigator in Tairāwhiti to support stroke survivors, whānau and the wider community about stroke prevention and awareness.
- Rongowhakaata Iwi Trust: $3,000 towards Rurukutia te Mauri o te Iwi Wānanga a Iwi – this year’s wānanga-a-iwi theme, which reinforces Rongowhakaata Iwi Trust’s Tirohanga whānui 100-year strategy for a thriving future.
- Junior Community Sports Foundation: $12,808 to support the Tairāwhiti 2025 Junior Community Rugby Festival. This event, for players aged 5 to 11, fosters enjoyment, participation and community spirit through modified, inclusive games, with teams from local and neighbouring regions participating.
More information on the communities fund.
Feasibility fund recipient:
- Te Rūnanga o Tūranganui a Kiwa: $25,000 for a feasibility study to revitalise the Ngā Wai E Rua building at the corner of Lowe Street and Reads Quay. This work was identified as a short-term priority in the City Centre Catalyst Initiatives Project. The proposed refurbishment would create a vibrant Māori business and innovation hub, including coworking spaces, room for community connection through Tūranga FM and commercial tenancies for iwi. The feasibility study will assess the viability of these uses, develop concept designs to inform refurbishment costs and provide a financial model.
The Trust’s feasibility fund enables research to assess the viability and potential success of projects that aspire to benefit communities and economic growth in Tairāwhiti.
All successful funding applicants demonstrated outcomes that align with the Trust’s wellbeing framework, He Rangitapu He Tohu Ora.