A new “Connecting Communities” fund designed to support community mental wellbeing initiatives across the Southern Lakes region was launched by the Te Hau Toka Southern Lakes Wellbeing Group on Wednesday. 

Up to $1,000 (GST inclusive) per round to assist with funding activities or events that improve mental wellbeing and encourage people to come together is being offered to eligible not-for-profit organisations and groups in the Queenstown, Wānaka, Cromwell, and Te Anau/Fiordland areas.

Te Hau Toka Group Chair, Adell Cox, says that the Connecting Communities fund will enable local communities to invest more in their mental wellbeing which will “hopefully boost our collective resilience now and for the future”. 

“The continuing uncertainty and stress of COVID has taken a toll on our mental health so this fund is designed to encourage people to find ways to connect, look after themselves and each other, and have some fun. 

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“We’d love to hear from all corners of the Southern Lakes communities about what people think would work best for them. It could be anything from games equipment for their community to an in-person or online event - or a component of a larger event - which connects people, supports mindfulness, encourages them to be active, enjoy nature, or learn a new skill.” 

The fund is part of a $3 million Government fund and the Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment (MBIE)’s Tourism Communities: Support, Recovery and Re-set Plan.  

The first of three funding rounds opened on 11 November, and closing on 22 November.

More details about the Connecting Communities fund can be found at www.southernhealth.nz/tehautoka