Purapura Community Fund
Mai i te purapura iti rawa, ka tupu ko te tino rākau
From the smallest seed grows the mightiest of trees. From small beginnings, great things can emerge.
Do you have an idea that could make a positive difference in Rānui?
The Purapura Community Fund provides funding and support for community-led projects that reflect the priorities of Whiti Te Rā.
$150,000 Available • Community-led Projects • For Rānui Whānau, Groups & Organisations
What is the Purapura Community Fund
The Purapura Community Fund supports local ideas that help whānau, neighbourhoods and community groups in Rānui heal, prepare and flourish after the 2023 severe weather events. A total of $150,000 is available to support community-led projects through this fund.
How it connects to Whiti Te Rā
In Rānui, Purapura is connected to Whiti Te Rā, a community-led plan of recovery, resilience and hope shaped by local kōrero after the floods. Whiti Te Rā reflects what local people said matters most, including strong relationships with mana whenua, support for tamariki and rangatahi, wellbeing, housing, kai, learning, local jobs, safety, emergency readiness, flood recovery and care for te taiao.
The meaning of Purapura
Te Kawerau ā Maki offers the name Purapura as a way of recognising the growth that can come from small beginnings. Purapura means seed - a source of growth and regeneration, representing potential, renewal and the beginning of something that can flourish. This idea connects closely to the Te Kawerau ā Maki tohu of the hue, a vessel that carries and protects seeds for the future. In the image of purapura flowing from the hue, we see community ideas being released, shared and planted with care.
What ideas are welcome?
Ideas could include safe activities for tamariki and rangatahi, kai initiatives, whānau wellbeing, local learning and skill-sharing, flood recovery support, environmental restoration, emergency readiness, or projects that bring people together in welcoming shared spaces.
Environmental Restoration
Native planting, stream restoration, community gardens, caring for te taiao.
Tamariki & Rangatahi
Youth activities, mentoring, creative programmes, sports, leadership opportunities.
Learning & Skill-sharing
Workshops, cultural learning, practical skills, community education
Kai Initiatives
Community meals, māra kai, food security, cooking programmes.
Whānau Wellbeing
Whānau events, wellbeing programmes, support groups, connection activities.
Community Spaces
Community events, neighbourhood gatherings, shared spaces, cultural celebrations.
Emergency Readiness
Emergency planning, neighbourhood preparedness, response training, resilience initiatives.
Flood Recovery
Community recovery, resilience projects, neighbourhood improvements, climate preparedness.
How to share your idea
We are inviting expressions of interest (EOI) from whānau, neighbours, local groups and community organisations with ideas that support the priorities in Whiti Te Rā. An EOI is a simple first step. Tell us your idea, how it supports local priorities, and what help or funding you may need.
What you'll be asked
The form is simple. We want to understand who is interested, what the idea is, who it could benefit, and what support may be needed.
What is your name, and how can we contact you?
What is your idea? (A few sentences are enough.)
Who is this idea for, or who would it benefit?
About how much funding do you think you might need? (A rough estimate is fine.)
Do you need support to develop this idea further? (For example: talking it through, budgeting help, finding a partner, or help with the application process.)
Would you like someone to contact you to kōrero about your idea?
Need support?
We’re holding drop-ins around the community where you can come & kōrero with us about this fund & your potential ideas!
Monday 17th Aug, 1pm-2pm at Rānui 135
Wednesday 19th Aug, 10am-11am at Rānui Community Centre
Thursday 20th Aug, 10am-11am at Rānui Library
You do not need a fully formed plan. A few sentences about your idea, who it is for, and what support you need is enough to start the kōrero. Support is available by phone, in person, or through trusted local connections. Contact Vinetta at vinetta.plummer@tekawerau.iwi.nz or 021 667 335. We can help you to develop your idea, complete the EOI, or connect you with local support.
How funding decisions are made
Funding decisions will be made through a community wānanga, where local people will come together to kōrero about the ideas shared. The community will help decide which projects receive funding, guided by the priorities of Whiti Te Rā and what will make the most difference for Rānui.
Everyone is welcome to register to attend the community wānanga. It's an opportunity to hear the ideas, take part in the kōrero, and help shape how the Purapura Community Fund is invested in our community.
Monday 10th August
EOI’s open
Friday 18th September
EOI’s close
Saturday 26th September
Community wānanga to decide which projects are funded
Week of 28th September
Applicants notified of decision
Timeline
Share your idea today!
Every great idea starts with a small seed. Share your idea today and help shape the future of Rānui.
The Purapura Community Fund is made possible through funding from:
Supported by:
