The Foxton Beach Endowment Fund is open for applications, with community groups able to apply directly for the first time.
The fund comes from endowment land at Foxton Beach and is managed by Horowhenua District Council on behalf of the community. Grants are paid from the income the fund earns each year, never from the fund itself. This helps ensure the fund continues to support future generations.
Until now, there was no public application process. That changed with a policy adopted in September 2025, developed with Te Awahou Foxton Community Board, descendants of the original landowners of Papangaio J Block, and the wider Foxton Beach community.
Te Awahou Foxton Community Board Chairperson Ross Brannigan, said the change puts community ideas front and center.
“For years, we’ve had people come to us with ideas about what Foxton Beach needs. Now there’s a clear way for them to put those forward.
“Foxton Beach is a small community and local people here know exactly what would make a real difference. I’d encourage anyone with a good idea to apply.”
Funding is available across four areas: heritage and culture, recreation and conservation, economic development, and wellbeing and community. Projects could include community facilities or shared assets, environmental and coastal projects, cultural and heritage initiatives, or projects that simply bring people together.
Applications must be for public services or amenities that benefit the people of Foxton Beach, and the project needs to sit within the Kere Kere Ward.
Applications will be assessed by Council officers, then reviewed by a working group of Board members and representatives of the descendants of Papangaio J Blocks original landowners. The Board will then make recommendations to Council, which will make the final decision.
Applications close on Wednesday 30 September. For help with your application, phone 06 366 0999 or email [email protected]
Full criteria, FAQs and details on how to apply are on our Apply for Foxton Beach Endowment Fund page.