More than $200,000 has been allocated to support 23 community events across Tauranga and the Western Bay of Plenty.

The Tauranga Western Bay Community Event Fund grants will see continued backing for established events such as the Zespri AIMS Games and the Tauranga Primary Schools’ Music Festival, which celebrates its 70th year in 2026, a media statement this week said.

The funding also extends to a wide mix of national secondary school sporting championships, local sporting competitions and a diverse programme of arts, cultural, environmental and community-led events.

The latest recipients reflect a broad events calendar spanning the region, with activities scheduled from July through to December.

Organisers said the mix of long-standing and first-time events is designed to ensure accessibility and participation opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds.

Crowd gathered at Tauranga Diwali Festival 2025.

The fund is a collaboration between philanthropic organisations Acorn Foundation, BayTrust and TECT Community Trust, alongside Tauranga City Council and Western Bay of Plenty District Council.

The partnership has been supporting community event delivery since 2023.

TECT Community Trust chief executive Wayne Werder said maintaining a balance between established and emerging events was vital.

“It’s important we continue to support the larger events our region is known for, as they bring energy, pride and national attention to our communities,” he said.

“At the same time, we’re just as committed to backing smaller, community-led events that make sure everyone has something they can be part of.”

Western Bay of Plenty District Council community and strategic relationships manager Jodie Rickard said the funding helps sustain a varied and inclusive events programme.

“This funding supports everything from nationally significant sporting events to local festivals and community gatherings,” she said.

“What ties them together is the opportunity they create for people to connect through sports, culture, new learning and simply spending time together.”

Banana in Pyjamas take on the 2025 Hume 5km/10km Fun Run/Walk.

Among the funded events are Barkfest in Tauranga, the Cherry Blossom Festival in Greerton, MakerFest at Basestation, the Tauranga Diwali Festival, and the Whānau Mārama New Zealand International Film Festival at Luxe Cinema. Several Tauranga Whai basketball fixtures and national school sporting championships will also benefit.

Round two of the Tauranga Western Bay Community Event Fund is now open and closes on July 14, 2026, with organisers encouraged to apply for support for upcoming events.