Creative Communities Scheme (Round 2)

This round will open at 1 September 2025 (NZST) for submissions.

The Creative Communities Scheme supports local community groups and individuals creating opportunities for access and participation in arts activities in all its forms. 

The Creative Communities Scheme is a Creative New Zealand fund that Whangarei District Council administers for distribution in the Whangarei district. The Scheme has its own criteria and grants are allocated by an independent committee of community representatives.

In the Whangarei district, the maximum you can apply for is $10,000. The fund is offered three times per financial year in 'rounds'.

Register and log in

You need to be logged in to start an application. Select 'log in' above to register. New registrations will receive an email with a link to complete the registration process. Check your spam folder if you don't receive it straight away. 

Once you have confirmed your registration and logged in, you can then select 'Fill out now' above to start completing your application. 

Creating a SmartyFile account

Once you are registered, you have the option to create a free SmartyFile profile for yourself and your organisation. For organisations and/or regular applicants, we highly recommend that you do this to get the best out of SmartyGrants and be able to manage all your grant information centrally. Follow the instructions in your registration email to create a SmartyFile account, or go to the link below.

SmartyFile

Application guide

See the Creative Communities Scheme application guide for full criteria. The guide also provides useful tips and examples for completing the application.

Creative Communities Scheme Guide (PDF, 182KB)

You will need to provide these supporting documents with your application:

  • latest financial performance report (groups only)
  • bank deposit slip or similar 
  • quotes for expenses
  • letters of support (recommended)
  • any supporting information you think relevant to your application.

Help guides

If you need more help using this form, check out these guides:

Help Guide for Applicants

Applicant Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

To leave your application, press ‘Save and Close’ and log out. When you log back in, go to 'My Submissions' at the top of the screen to reopen your draft application.

You can share the log in details of your application to collaborate with others, but only one person at a time can work on it. Ensure you save as you go.