- Friday, 25 September 2026
Community Trust South is supporting Māori aspirations through the launch of Tahua Mana Māori, a new funding pathway that will provide up to $325,000 annually to support marae-based aspirations and Māori-led solutions.
Developed in recognition of the important place marae hold within our hapori to provide places of identity, connection, belonging and support for communities, Tahua Mana Māori has been established for Papatipu Rūnaka and recognised mātāwaka marae across the Trust's funding region.
Community Trust South manawhenua-endorsed Trustee Maria Pera said the Trust had carefully considered how it could strengthen its support for Māori aspirations and better respond to the needs of the diverse Māori communities it serves.
"Tahua Mana Māori acknowledges the mana, leadership and vision that already exists within our communities and supports Māori-led solutions that reflect local priorities and aspirations.”
Chief Executive Officer Jackie Flutey said the new pathway reflects the Trust's commitment to supporting solutions that are designed and led by Māori communities
"The interests and aspirations of Māori are a priority for Community Trust South. We know the most effective solutions are often those shaped by the people closest to the opportunities and challenges within their communities. Tahua Mana Māori recognises the leadership that already exists within our marae and provides a more direct and meaningful way to support Māori aspirations, both now and for future generations."
By empowering communities to determine and lead their own priorities, the Trust aims to contribute to meaningful and lasting outcomes for whānau, marae, communities and future generations.
Matawaka Marae representatives with Community Trust South staff.
Support through Tahua mana Māori is for
Ngā Papatipu Rūnaka o Murihiku:
Hokonui, Ōraka-Aparima, Waihōpai, Awarua
Ngā Marae Mātāwaka o Murihiku:
Te Oruanui Marae Ohai, Te Whānau o Hokonui Marae Gore, Mataura and Districts Marae Mataura, Ngā Hau e Whā Marae Waihōpai / Invercargill, Te Tomairangi Marae Waihōpai / Invercargill