Eastern Bay of Plenty Marae Boosted by $10M Climate Fund

Marae across the Eastern Bay of Plenty are set to become even stronger community anchors, thanks to fresh investment from the Government's Māori Climate Platform. Two newly announced projects will benefit six marae across the Eastern Bay of Plenty and Waikato regions, helping whānau prepare for and respond to the challenges of a changing climate.

Climate Change Minister Simon Watts announced the latest round of funding under Stage 2 of the Māori Climate Platform, bringing total investment across Stages 1 and 2 to more than $10 million. The platform is designed to make practical, on-the-ground investments that build real resilience in Māori communities — and the results are being felt right across the motu.

Marae have long served as vital hubs at the heart of their communities — places of gathering, learning, and refuge in times of need. By directing funding towards these treasured spaces, the Government is recognising the unique and powerful role marae play not just in everyday community life, but especially during emergencies and natural disasters when whānau need a safe place to turn.

The projects will support emergency preparedness planning and climate resilience initiatives tailored to the specific needs of each marae and its surrounding community. This kind of locally-led, place-based approach means solutions are relevant, culturally grounded, and built to last — giving communities the tools and confidence to face whatever challenges lie ahead.

For the Eastern Bay of Plenty, a region that knows all too well the impacts of severe weather events, this investment is particularly meaningful. Strengthening marae resilience means strengthening entire communities — and that is something worth celebrating for every whānau, neighbour, and friend who calls this beautiful rohe home.

Originally reported by Beehive.govt.nz - The official website of the New Zealand Government.