One of Waitara’s most popular summer events is on the move and aiming to grow with some help from NPDC’s Community Events Grant.
The monthly markets, with its mix of music, food, stalls and entertainment, had been held at Whai Tapuwae nō Rongo sports hub, but organisers He Rau Oranga Trust tried other sites last season, such as West Quay waterfront, Waitara War Memorial Hall and Otupaiia / Marine Park.
The trust received $12,000 from NPDC’s Community Events Grant this year (2022/2023) to help grow the markets which attract thousands of people over the summer and are set to return in November.
He Rau Oranga, chair and trustee Tiri Porter says “We want to try to expand with more community stuff, with kaumātua and rangatahi. Our point of difference is that we whakapapa to Waitara, to Taranaki, so we know what our people want. We’re also a platform for people new to Waitara to connect.”
“This funding gives us stability and gets the ball rolling for other funders to come on board.” says fellow trustee Chyloe Bishop.
The grant is available for events that are free or affordable for all and aim to be a fixture in their communities.
NPDC Community Partnerships lead Callum Williamson says “Grassroots events keep us connected and make our district more vibrant. Our Community Events Grant helps get local events off the ground and supports annual grass-roots events that aim to be major attractions, so tell us if you have something happening in your hood and you think it might become the main attraction.”
Applications are open for the latest round of the grant until June 24
Find out more at npdc.govt.nz/CommunityEventsGrant
