A fifth round of funding for wellbeing initiatives is set to give Upper Clutha residents a boost during autumn.

The Te Hau Toka Southern Lakes wellbeing group’s Connecting Communities fund supports community-led activities and events across Wānaka, Cromwell, Queenstown and Te Anau/Fiordland to encourage people to look after each other and have fun.

Te Hau Toka Southern Lakes wellbeing group chair Adell Cox said the autumn months are great for communities to take some time out and really focus on their wellbeing after a busy summer.

“We’re moving into a new normal but are still experiencing significant challenges which are impacting on people’s mental health,” Adell said.

“It’s important to keep people well and support initiatives that build social connection and resilience and help our communities not just survive, but thrive.”

Wānaka initiatives supported by the previous funding rounds have included a seven-week adventure camp, community yoga, a M!NT Charitable Trust workshop, a Nepalese New Year celebration, a mural, kapa haka workshops and more.

The upcoming round opens on February 20 and closes on March 2. Eligible not-for-profit groups can apply for $1,000 to assist with their activity or event.

The criteria includes engaging with the community; supporting mental wellbeing; aligning with the Mental Health Foundation’s ‘five ways to wellbeing’ and Te Whare Tapa Wha; and being delivered in Wānaka or the other listed areas.

Te Hau Toka introduced the Connecting Communities fund 15 months ago as part of its efforts to combat the ongoing negative effects of Covid-19. 

Almost $180,000 has gone to 185 recipients to help people improve mental wellbeing in their communities in the previous four funding rounds.

Information on how to apply for the funding is available online here. 

PHOTO: Supplied