TECT Community Trust has approved the largest annual distribution in its history, signing off a record $42 million for the 2026/27 year.

The decision, confirmed by trustees this week, marks a major milestone for Tauranga and the Western Bay of Plenty.

Of the total, $3m has been allocated to operating expenditure, leaving $39m available for community grants – the biggest grants pool TECT has committed.

TECT chief executive Wayne Werder said the unprecedented level of funding reflects years of strategic planning and careful management.

“Approving a total distribution of $42m is a significant moment for TECT and our communities,” he said.

“Deliberate decisions made in previous years to protect capital and restructure the trust are now allowing us to deliver greater impact through increased funding back into the community.”

Werder said the scale of the 2026/27 distribution ensured more funding than ever was directed toward initiatives that improve quality of life now and provide long-term benefits for future generations.

Funding allocations announced

The Draft Annual Distribution Plan outlines how the $39m in grants will be invested across the region. Planned allocations include:

– $5.9m – Community Facilities

– $1.97m – Community Events

– $7.86m – Community Development

– $17.7m – Facilities of Regional Significance

– $5.9m – Catalyst for Change Fund

TECT said the relatively modest operating expenditure reflected its commitment to ensuring the vast majority of trust funds flowed directly into community outcomes.

Werder said the distribution would support a balance of grassroots projects and major facilities.

“This level of funding allows us to support both the smaller, local initiatives that make a day-to-day difference and the larger projects that will shape the future of our region.”

Community feedback sought

While the trust said the record distribution was a milestone worth celebrating, it emphasised the importance of public input before the plan is finalised.

“We may have the biggest funding pot we’ve ever had, but it’s essential that we listen carefully to our community,” Werder said.

“Community feedback helps ensure this funding is directed to the areas that matter most.”

TECT is seeking feedback not only on the proposed funding allocations but also on updates to its Funding Framework and several major regional facilities currently under consideration. These include a Badminton and Multisport Community Centre and a Cancer Lodge.

Submission period now open

Community submissions are open until 4pm, Wednesday, March 18. All feedback will be considered before the final Annual Distribution Plan is adopted later in March. The approved plan will guide all funding decisions from April 1.

More information, including the full Draft Annual Distribution Plan and submission details, is available at www.tect.org.nz

-Content Supplied by TECT