Purpose
The New Zealand High Commission Fund (the Fund) supports small scale, short-term community projects that contribute to wider community development and well-being. Projects must be in line with the New Zealand International Development Cooperation (IDC) (formerly NZAID) Programme’s mission of sustainable development.
Applications for the 2026/27 Fund Round
Applications open: Monday 13 July 2026
Applications close: 2pm, Tuesday 25 August 2026
Who can apply
The Fund is aimed primarily at community groups and non-government organisations but other types of organisations e.g. PTAs, schools, business associations, may apply.
The community group, NGO, or organisation must be locally-based in the Cook Islands and implementing their proposed project within the Cook Islands.
The Fund does not support individual businesses.
Grant timeline
Budget
The maximum level of funding per project application is NZ$25,000.
Project duration
Approved projects must be completed within one (1) year from signing of the Grant Fund Letter. However, all invoices must be submitted with payments disbursed no later than 15 May 2027.
Project Implementation
Please plan for expected implementation from 2027 and ensure your Implementation Plan clearly illustrates the key stages of your project from start to finish.
In effect, we are requesting a project timeline of key tasks for the project with resources required identified. This timeline and/or the complexity/reach of the project will also determine the frequency of reporting that will be required.
Project Budget Summary
Please clearly show what your project costings are for your project; including what costs you would like the Fund to contribute to and what other sources of funding will cover the project costs in your proposal.
What will not be funded:
- political, religious or evangelical activities
N.B. faith-based groups are not excluded where the proposed project is consistent with the purpose of the Fund, does not exclude followers of other religions, and are not used to support proselytising - site visits
- unsolicited donations
- individual student scholarships
- international airfares/overseas conference attendance
- Concerts and Festivals
In addition, applications for the following activities will not be considered:
- Purchase or hire of vehicles, including tractors, motor cycles/mopeds, and ride-on-mowers
- Land preparation, including all machinery/tools related to land preparation and/or clearing (such as grass cutters, chainsaws, mowers, and so forth)
- Attire (including uniforms and related gears)
Additional Criteria
An Endorsement Letter may be required with your application to ensure alignment with existing and/or upcoming development and programmes of work. Applicants must consult with the relevant Ministry or Agency, where applicable to their project.
Applications from the Pa Enua are required to consult with their Island Council and include within their application an Endorsement Letter.
Application process
Applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. Late and incomplete applications will not be considered.
Please ensure you read the criteria thoroughly before submitting an application. As resources are limited we will prioritise projects that align with the theme and criteria.
All applicants will be notified by email on the result of their application approximately 8 weeks after the closing date.
For enquiries and to submit your application
- Email to: NZHC.RRO@mfat.govt.nz