Auckland partnership to help community groups

Transpower's Bob Coombes, Chris Roberts and Wayne Eagleson visit the Kaipatiki Ecological Restoration Project, one of the successful community projects supported by the ARC Environmental Initiatives Fund.

Transpower has entered into an exciting new partnership with the Auckland Regional Council, designed to build the capacity of local community groups engaged in environmental enhancement projects.

Since 1999, the ARC’s Environmental Initiatives Fund (EIF) has been successful in financially assisting groups in the Auckland region to care for their local environment.

However, ARC’s Director Community and Strategy Louise Marra says a gap was identified in the funding programme, which Transpower has now filled.

“Capacity building helps communities start new groups and helps existing groups develop and grow. The work undertaken by these groups creates environmental, cultural and social benefits, as people work together to restore natural areas in their neighbourhoods. So we warmly appreciate the initiative shown by Transpower in developing this fund in conjunction with the ARC.”

Transpower is supporting the Community Capacity Building Fund with $80,000 per year. Community groups will be able to seek grants up to $5000 for practical materials and resources to enable them to undertake their environmental activities. This could include everything from computers, to safety gear and gardening equipment, to bringing in specialist trades.

Transpower GM Public Affairs Wayne Eagleson says the new partnership complements Transpower’s existing support for New Zealand Landcare Trust and the National Parks and Conservation Foundation.

“We have seen plenty of examples where a little bit of support and encouragement has been a real catalyst to help communities look after their environment.”

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