Sweeping changes to the way charities and not-for-profit organisations are taxed in New Zealand, proposed by the government’s tax agency, Inland Revenue (IRD), have drawn sharp criticism from sector leaders and tax experts who warn the reforms are ill-defined, lack supporting data, and could significantly harm the country’s vital third sector. An officials’ issues paper, … Read more
Funding awarded to empower Porirua youth through diverse programmes
Charities editor
Programmes ranging from boxing training to digital media production will receive significant financial support following the latest allocation from the Porirua City Council’s Young People’s Fund, aimed at positively impacting local children (tamariki) and young people (rangatahi). The funding round included two major Tier 1 grants, providing $50,000 annually for three years, and five Tier … Read more
Orange Sky launches permanent South Auckland laundry service to meet growing need
Charities editor
In response to sharply rising homelessness and housing hardship figures, non-profit organisation Orange Sky Aotearoa has opened a new permanent laundry facility in Māngere, South Auckland. The initiative, launched today, is a collaboration with local kaupapa Māori health provider Turuki Health Care and commercial laundry service Alsco Uniforms. It marks a move towards more permanent … Read more
Child safety advocate raises alarm over regulatory gaps for non-funded charities
An advocate for child protection is warning of significant gaps in safeguards for children involved with charities, particularly those not receiving government funding. Willow Duffy, founder of the organisation Safeguarding Children, expressed concern about a lack of mandatory standards, training, and robust vetting processes for staff and volunteers across the charitable sector following an inquiry … Read more
Salvation Army launches annual appeal as cost-of-living crisis deepens need
The Salvation Army has launched its annual Red Shield Appeal, urgently seeking donations to sustain its community services as New Zealand faces a worsening cost-of-living crisis and increasing hardship among its most vulnerable populations. The organisation reports growing demand for its services, including foodbanks, financial mentoring, counselling, addiction support, and assisted accommodation. The appeal aims … Read more
QLDC opens $180,000 community fund, invites applications to boost local wellbeing
The Queenstown Lakes District Council has opened applications for its 2025-2026 Community Fund, inviting local charities, not-for-profit organisations, and community groups to seek a share of a $180,000 funding pool aimed at enhancing local wellbeing. The fund, a key component of the council’s support for community initiatives, offers one year of operational or project funding. … Read more
