Marlborough District Council is pleased to announce the funding allocations for the 2026-2027 Working for Nature / Mahi mō te Taiao Grant Scheme, supporting community-driven environmental projects across the region.
The 2025-2026 funding round closed on June 1, with all applicants successfully achieving their project objectives. Applications for the 2026-2027 grant round opened in April and a total of thirty-nine were received, requesting $349,129.25 from a pool of $142,400. After careful assessment, the grant subcommittee approved twenty-two projects for full or partial funding.
“The diversity and calibre of applications this year demonstrate Marlborough’s deep commitment to restoring and protecting our native biodiversity,” says Grant Sub-Committee Chair, Sally Arbuckle. “It’s inspiring to see so many groups, from community organisations to local businesses and individuals, taking action for nature. The Council is proud to support these efforts through the scheme.”
The grant supports projects under three categories: ‘Protecting Marlborough’, ‘Habitat Marlborough’, and ‘Environmental Advocacy’. This year, most applications focused on pest control and habitat restoration, reflecting the region’s priority of safeguarding native species and ecosystems.
Three projects – Arapaoa Kiwi Stage 4, Kaiaho Point Trapping & Habitat Protection, and Wild Waikawa – received full funding. Nineteen other projects were awarded partial funding, helping to advance initiatives such as possum and wilding pine control, and habitat restoration. To maximise the impact of grant dollars, Council also coordinated a bulk purchase of AT220 automatic traps, delivering significant cost savings to twelve successful applicants.
“Every dollar invested through this scheme is leveraged by volunteers and alternative funding, multiplying the impact for Marlborough’s environment,” adds Mrs Arbuckle. “This year’s funding round will support over $300,000 worth of environmental protection and enhancement, further supported by countless hours of volunteer work across the district.”
All applicants have now been advised of the funding decisions. “The Council thanks everyone who applied and looks forward to seeing the positive outcomes delivered by this year’s grant recipients,” said Mrs Arbuckle.
