Meridian boosts funding to Te Apiti community projects

Wednesday 25 July 2012

$120,000 has been made available for Meridian Energy’s Te Apiti Community Fund to support Ashhurst and Woodville community projects over the next three years. This is an increase from the previous three-year allocation of $100,000, recognising the significant value that community projects have been making to the ongoing sustainability of these communities.

The Fund has been supporting community projects since 2009, and recently granted $15,000 to replace Ashhurst’s Christmas lights.

“The Ashhurst community has celebrated the festive season for a number of years with a beautiful array of lights across the town” says Chris Mitchell, Trustee of the newly formed Ashhurst Community Trust. “Last year the lights had deteriorated so much we could no longer use them. We received countless requests to bring them back, so we are really happy that Meridian has been able to help us purchase the new lights” says Chris.

“Projects like this are at the heart of Meridian’s Community Funds” says Russell Thomas, chair of Meridian’s Te Apiti Community Fund panel. “The lights give Ashhurst a real identity, bringing people together each year to celebrate their community. Meridian is proud to support projects like these that build the resilience and sustainability of our rural townships” says Russell.

The continuation of the Fund for another three years recognises the success of the funding model – which has helped a wide range of community development initiatives in Woodville and Ashhurst.

Supported projects include environmental conservation, volunteer emergency services, community events, and heritage restoration. Funding allocations are managed by a panel of community representatives and Meridian staff.

The next round of applications to the Fund are due 18 September 2012.

Find out more about the Te Apiti Community Fund, including how and when to apply.

Projects supported in this round of Meridian’s Te Apiti Community Fund include:

Ashhurst Community Trust
$15,000 will help purchase Christmas lights for display in the township over the festive season.

Woodville Upgrade Residents Group
$25,000* will help purchase a sculpture celebrating the township.

*conditional on meeting funding requirements
ENDS

For more information contact:
Katy Glenie
External Communications, Meridian Energy
021 997 523