At the heart of Ahu is a commitment to helping communities thrive. Through funding, support, partnership and stewardship, Ahu Community Trust works alongside not-for-profit organisations and local initiatives to help create opportunities, strengthen connections and overcome barriers.
What We Do
Ahu Community Trust provides funding and support to not-for-profit organisations working for the benefit of communities across Mid and South Canterbury.
This support takes a number of forms, from smaller practical grants through to larger strategic partnerships and other targeted opportunities. Alongside funding, there is also an increasing focus on guidance, connection and community capability, recognising that strong communities are built through more than money alone.
Ahu Community Trust also holds and manages investments on behalf of the region. This careful stewardship helps protect the long-term value of the Trust’s assets, so support can continue to be provided to communities now and into the future.
Our Vision
Flourishing and sustainable communities, with opportunities created and barriers overcome.
How We Support Communities
Ahu Community Trust supports communities through a range of funding and support pathways designed to respond to different needs, opportunities and priorities across the region.
Community Grants
Flexible grant pathways for everyday community needs, from smaller practical requests through to larger community-focused initiatives.
Strategic Partnerships
Intentional funding partnerships focused on priority areas where deeper support, collaboration and impact can make a bigger difference.
Special Funding Pathways
Funding pathways for selected priorities, special projects and community needs that sit outside the main grant streams.
Support Beyond Funding
Support may also include guidance, connection, training and other resources that help organisations and communities build confidence and capability over time.
Our Region
Ahu Community Trust supports communities across Mid and South Canterbury.
The region is shaped by the Rakaia River in the north, the Waitaki River in the south, and the Southern Alps to the west. Within these boundaries sit the four local authority districts of Ashburton, Mackenzie, Timaru and Waimate.
Across this landscape are many distinct communities, each with its own character, needs and strengths. Ahu Community Trust exists to help these communities take root, grow and flourish, while recognising the connections that link them across the wider region.
Meet the People Behind Ahu
Ahu Community Trust is guided by Trustees and supported by staff who are committed to serving communities across the region.
Our Trustees
Trustees are appointed by the Minister of Finance and provide governance, stewardship and strategic direction for the Trust.
Our Staff
Our staff support the day-to-day work of the Trust, helping communities access funding, guidance and connection across Mid and South Canterbury.
Stewardship and Responsibility
Ahu Community Trust has a responsibility not only to support communities today, but to do so in a way that sustains future giving.
That means balancing community investment with careful stewardship. By managing its investment portfolio prudently and professionally, the Trust works to maintain the real value of its assets and preserve its ability to support not-for-profit organisations across the region over time.
This long-term view helps ensure that funding and support remain available for the communities of Mid and South Canterbury, both now and into the future.
History and Reports
Ahu Community Trust has a long history of supporting communities across Mid and South Canterbury. That history remains an important part of the Trust’s story, even as the organisation steps into a new chapter under the Ahu name.
Annual reports and historical information provide a deeper look at the Trust’s work, development and impact over time.
Get in Touch
Have a question or want to talk something through?
Whether the enquiry is about funding, support, the Trust’s role in the region, or the change to Ahu Community Trust, please get in touch.
Stories & Impact
Another Story
HYPE Youth Health Centre provides free and confidential support for young people aged 12–24 across the Ashburton District.
Ashburton Youth Health Trust
HYPE Youth Health Centre provides free and confidential support for young people …
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Another Story
HYPE Youth Health Centre provides free and confidential support for young people aged 12–24 across the Ashburton District.