Community events across Tauranga and the Western Bay of Plenty are set for a major boost, with the Tauranga Western Bay Community Event Fund confirmed for another three years.

More than $1 million in funding would be allocated for the 2026–27 period.

The fund’s five partners – Acorn Foundation, BayTrust, Tauranga City Council, TECT and Western Bay of Plenty District Council – have renewed their commitment to the collaborative model that has become a cornerstone of event support across the region since the fund’s establishment in 2022.

By pooling resources and aligning priorities, the partnership has secured the future of the region’s most significant funding source for locally led community events.

This year’s agreement included an increase in the annual funding pool, enabling more events to receive support to bring people together, celebrate local culture and strengthen community connectedness.

Western Bay of Plenty District Council’s community and strategic relationships manager Jodie Rickard said the renewed commitment was very good for the region.

“This is a real win for our community and for the volunteers and organisations who deliver events across our region. The commitment to continue collaborating, combined with increased funding, gives event organisers greater certainty to plan, grow and deliver events that bring people together.”

Alongside the announcement, the fund has revealed the 15 successful applicants from the latest funding round – representing cultural celebrations, community festivals, youth events, sports fixtures and family activities.

Funded events: Latest round recipient list

Since its launch in 2022, the Community Event Fund has played a vital role in supporting initiatives that foster inclusion, wellbeing and a strong sense of place.

The renewed three‑year commitment ensures this positive impact will continue, supporting both established favourites and emerging events across the Western Bay.

TECT chief executive Wayne Werder said the fund was about more than just delivering events.

“The fund is about more than events, it’s about our people. By investing in community-led events, we’re investing in social connection, local pride and shared experiences that bring our region together.

“It’s fantastic to see the funders and councils continuing to work together, recommitting to and growing the event fund so we can all continue to support our local event organisers.”

The current funding round was now open for events taking place between July and September, with applications closing on Tuesday, April 28.