New Zealand Community Trust (NZCT)
Moderate detailOne of New Zealand's largest gaming trusts (12% market share), established 1998. Distributed $39.9 million through 1,914 grants in 2023/24. Around 75% of funds go to amateur sport. Also funds rescue services, youth development, arts, culture, health, education, and environment. Has Regional Advisory Committees across NZ including Top of the South. Two Net Proceeds Committees: NPC1 (trustees, monthly, larger grants) and NPC2 (senior managers, fortnightly, smaller grants). Apply at least 3 months before funds needed.
Grant Range
$1,000 to $150,000+. Typical sport grants $2,000 to $30,000. Larger grants for facilities and rescue services.
What they fund
Who can apply
What they care about
Amateur sport participation is the primary focus (75% of grants). Strong support for rescue/life-saving services (Life Flight, Coastguard), youth development, arts and culture, health organisations. Must have NZCT gaming venue in your area. Funds must be for activities not possible without grant funding - 'must haves' over 'nice to haves'.
Writing tips
Focus on community outcomes and participation numbers. Be specific about what the grant will achieve. Describe how many people benefit and from which communities. Include measurable KPIs for salary grants.
Common mistakes to avoid
Applying for professional sport, social events (parties, balls, after-match functions), bar facilities or alcohol, personal items. Not being an incorporated entity with NZBN. Not constituted for at least one financial year. Outstanding accountability from previous grants. Not re-registering under Incorporated Societies Act 2022 by April 2026.
What makes a strong application
Clear community benefit, strong alignment with amateur sport or authorised purposes, realistic budget, demonstrated need, good accountability history, evidence of volunteer engagement, measurable outcomes and KPIs
Application structure
Required documents
- • consent to be audited form
- • incorporation certificate
- • financial statements
- • project budget
- • employment contract if salary grant