NEWS RELEASE

 

22 August 2007
 

Almost a quarter of ASB Community Trust’s $67.6 million grants budget was spent in Northland last year, the Trust’s annual report shows.

 

 



A $3 million grant will help build Kaitaia’s multi-purpose Te Ahu facility.

The figure was pushed up by major grants to two Far North projects - $3 million for Kaitaia’s multi-purpose Te Ahu facility and $5 million for Waitangi National Trust’s new visitor centre.


In total just over $16 million went to Far North applications, including grants such as $158,000 to Sport Northland and $81,000 for extensions to the Te Kao health clinic, through to $11,000 for Whangarei CAB and $1000 to the Dargaville Girls Brigade.


CEO Jennifer Gill says the $67.6 million total grants budget was the result of an “extraordinary” investment return in 2006 – when the Trust made 20.8% – leaving it with a big surplus.


Since then a tougher investment market has seen an investment return of 8.8%, so the grants budget for 2008 will return to its historical average of $45 million.


The Trust will be reporting back on its results at its annual public meeting, to be held at Te Whakamaharatanga marae, in the Hokianga, on Saturday, September 29. The marae is just off State Highway 12, south of Omapere. Click here for details


The event begins with a powhiri at 11am. After the presentation of the Trust’s annual report, grants advisors and Trustees will lead a workshop on the application process.


This will help groups understand the Trust’s priorities and what it funds.  Those planning to attend are asked to RSVP to