The Funding Series returns to support community resilience in 2026

Free monthly workshops designed to strengthen the capability of non-profit organisations and provide them with the tools needed for long-term financial sustainability are returning to the district over the next few months.

Taking place in Arrowtown, Queenstown and Wānaka from March to June, The Funding Series is funded by Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) and proudly hosted in partnership with huddl, Three Lakes Cultural Trust, Sport Central, and the Conservation Alliance.

Fiona Reeve, Project Lead of huddl, an initiative focused on supporting community groups, said following a successful programme launch last year with several sold-out sessions, it was great to see the collaborative approach delivering real value for the sector.

“By working together, we’ve been able to provide practical tools and training to help set organisations up for long-term success.”

“Seeing groups grow their confidence around funding through these shared workshops is exactly the outcome we’re aiming for. This year we’d also encourage boards and trustees to attend alongside their staff and volunteers.”

Samantha Kirk, Chief Operating Officer of Three Lakes Cultural Trust agreed, noting, "The need to better understand and navigate funding was a consistent theme through our consultation on the Te Muka Toi, Te Muka Takata, Creativity, Culture and Heritage Strategy. We are thrilled to work with other local groups to help bring this to life.”

Marie Day, QLDC Community Partnerships Manager, was pleased with the positive results gained in 2025 and saw the value of continuing to share the partnership’s existing expertise.

“Sustainable funding is crucial for long-term impact, and we are pleased to extend our support for a programme that equips local groups with the skills and knowledge to thrive.”

The 2025 series received an exceptional response, with participants describing the workshops as "immensely valuable" and awarding them a stellar average impact rating of over 4.5 out of 5. Feedback from last year highlighted the value of "practical take-homes" and the opportunity to connect with peers.

The 2026 Series Schedule:

March - Funding Fundamentals:

Back by popular demand and sponsored by Central Lakes Trust, fundraising strategist Fi McPhee returns to lead this essential session. The perfect entry point for those new to funding, boards, and volunteers, or as a refresher for those looking to hone their funding skills.  

Wānaka: Wednesday 4 March, 6.00pm to 8.00pm, Wānaka Community Hub Sidey Auditorium
Arrowtown: Tuesday 10 March, 6.00pm to 8.00pm, Arrowtown Community Centre

April - The Funder’s Perspective:

Working alongside regional funders to explore what makes a great application and identify common pitfalls.

Arrowtown: Tuesday 21 April, 10.00am to 12.00pm, Arrowtown Community Centre
Wānaka: Thursday 23 April, 10.00am to 12.00pm, Lake Wānaka Centre

May - Measurement & Impact:

An expert-led session with Dr. Linda Taylor on effectively measuring and communicating the impact of community work—a vital component for modern grant-seeking.

Wānaka: Tuesday 19 May, 6.00pm to 8.00pm, Lake Wānaka Centre, Armstrong Room
Queenstown: Wednesday 20 May, 6.00pm to 8.00pm, Salvation Army Frankton Auditorium

June - Alternative Funding & Creative Hui:

This session explores innovative revenue streams beyond traditional grants, providing groups with strategies to diversify their income for greater resilience. The workshop will align with the Te Muka Toi, Te Muka Tākata Creative and Culture Hui.

Queenstown: Friday 12 June, Time to be confirmed, Te Atamira
Wānaka:  Saturday 13 June, Time to be confirmed, Lake Wānaka Centre

This series is a free event funded by QLDC. Tickets for the March and April sessions are open now on Humanitix and can be found via www.threelakesculturaltrust.co.nz/funding-series 

To stay informed when ticketing for future sessions open, follow any of the partners’ social media channels, or head to www.threelakesculturaltrust.co.nz/funding-series 

ENDS|KUA MUTU.

Media contact

communications@qldc.govt.nz 

TEL: 03 441 1802

FURTHER INFORMATION | Kā pāroko tāpiri

The Funding Series is open to individuals, groups and organisations who rely on funding or fundraising to support their operations, project or event.

A range of QLDC funding rounds open in April 2026. These include funding opportunities to support local initiatives and events which promote community wellbeing and sustainability. For more information go to www.qldc.govt.nz/community-funding

The Organisers

Queenstown Lakes District Council

Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) is committed to fostering a thriving, connected, and sustainable community. As the local governing body for the Queenstown Lakes District, QLDC supports initiatives that enhance community wellbeing, build resilience, and promote equitable access to resources. Through strategic funding, partnerships, and policy leadership, QLDC works alongside community groups and organisations to create lasting positive impact. For more information, visit www.qldc.govt.nz.

huddl  

An initiative that aims to strengthen and support community groups, charitable organisations, and networks in Central Otago and Queenstown Lakes. huddl is governed by members from Alexandra Community House, Central Lakes Trust, Central Otago District Council, Cromwell & Districts Community Trust, Queenstown Lakes District Council, Sport Central, Volunteer South, and the Whakatipu Hub. For more information, visit huddl.nz.

Three Lakes Cultural Trust

The Three Lakes Cultural Trust (TLCT) is a registered charitable Trust established in 2019. Recognised as the Queenstown Lakes District regional arts organisation, we exist to support and facilitate the building of creativity, culture and heritage through advocacy, connectivity, promotion, infrastructure and capability building, with a vision for the Queenstown Lakes District to be a powerhouse of arts, culture and creativity. For more information, visit www.threelakesculturaltrust.co.nz

Sport Central

Sport Central is the Central Otago and Queenstown Lakes regional office of Sport Otago. Sport Central works with organisations throughout the region to enable active communities and promote healthy lifestyles, offering a wide range of services, including sport development, education, and training.

Conservation Alliance

An informal group of conservation focused entities that are striving to enhance the natural environment across the region.