Did lockdown got your creative juices flowing?

If covid restrictions or level 4 lockdown gave you an artistic brainwave, then Creative New Zealand’s Creative Communities Scheme may have some funding to help you realise your vision.

The Creative Communities Scheme provides funding to increase participation in the arts right here in Ōpōtiki. The funding is to help keep local arts alive and thriving, expanding the range and diversity of arts available within the district.

Ōpōtiki District Council's Executive Support Officer, Teri Curtis, helps administer the fund. She explained that Council wants to make sure there are plenty of great quality applications to ensure that artistic endeavours in the Ōpōtiki district thrive.

“This pūtea (funding) shows our community that getting involved in the arts kaupapa, has an amazing effect on our people and our community as a whole. Ōpōtiki could do with something else to take our minds off the pandemic that is around us and art is really important right now for whānau out there to express themselves creatively.

“Toi (art) has many forms - you could be passionate about dance, drama, music, wānanga, workshops and seminars. Maybe you want to be involved with our community arts whānau, and or cultural events. Whatever it is, I recommend reading through the terms and conditions, and the criteria, then get your tono (application) in pronto for this funding round,” Teri said.

Applications have now opened and there are a few points to note – the project must be delivered in the next 12 months, and it can’t already be underway or completed. All the details are online.

Funding applications are considered by an assessment committee made up of dedicated representatives from the Ōpōtiki district.

Applications close on Friday 1 October 2021 for projects starting after Wednesday 13 October 2021.

Application forms, criteria and guides are available on our Creative Communities Scheme page.