A big week for community connectivity

The Hurunui District Council Community Calendar has proven to be chocka-block for activity, with three events and a host of important meetings taking place.

Monday 9th saw Vimbayi Chitaka from Rātā Foundation and Trish Hughes from Hāpai Hapori Community Matters come to Hurunui to talk to residents about Community Funding.

Hosted by HDC Community Development Facilitator Vanessa Nelmes, the event gave attendees an overview of available funding streams and tips to writing a successful application.

Vanessa says, "We’re very lucky to have Trish and Vimbayi facilitate our annual funding hui. They share useful advice to help make the application process less daunting. With a chance to network over a cuppa, attendees can then ask more specific questions of our guests."

This is the fourth time HDC has hosted the funding hui, with attendees from right across the district, highlighting some awesome projects and passionate people working hard to bring their vision to life.

If you missed this event, you're in for a treat as the Community Organisations Grants Scheme (COGS) Public Meeting is coming up on March 20, 2026.

There was an amazing turnout, the evening of Tuesday 10th at Amberley School for the Parenting Neurodivergent Children and Youth event, presented by Community Wellbeing North Canterbury Trust and Together Hurunui.

Facilitated by educational psychologist Sharyn Gousmett, and Sarah Columbus a parent with lived experience, the forum centred around the deep desire for our children to thrive and feel safe, and for parents to understand children as their own unique person.

With over 100 attendees at the event, it's certain there's a desire for more support and education in this area.