Who are we ? 

We are a trusted, independent, not-for-profit community foundation that has registered charitable status.

We grow community impact through transformational, sustainable, bold and meaningful change in our communities, made possible by the generosity of our donors. 

We are a proud member of the Community Foundations of Aotearoa New Zealand. 

Our Purpose  

Our core purpose is to champion and grow a perpetual fund to support projects that will positively impact the communities in our region, and to contribute to our mission of helping to build a thriving Eastern Bay, truly making this an outstanding place to live, work and play. 

Our trustees are faithful and dependable local people, rotated and selected to represent the geographical and physical diversity of the region. They are committed to creating the change our community needs and act in good faith to be the guardians of the funds gifted to the community, held in our care. 

One of the primary objectives of the Eastern Bay Community Foundation is to make a real and long lasting difference to our region through encouraging local generosity. We work alongside those who wish to support a specific cause, passion or area of interest now and into the future. 

We Build Endowment Funds 

An endowment fund is an invested gift, with income going to a cause or causes of the donors choice. It enables generous people to give long term, well beyond their lifetime to a cause or a charity they care about in their local community. Endowment funds are established to support:

  • the arts
  • the preservation of taonga and heritage
  • education
  • strengthening communities
  • health
  • our natural environment
  • children and youth
  • seniors
  • sport and recreation

The range is limitless. 

Whether you are an individual, a family or an organisation the Eastern Bay Community Foundation can work with you to achieve the difference you wish to make.

We accept one-off gifts, regular donations, and bequests. Many gifts are eligible for the current tax benefit of 33 1/3 % rebate.

You can find us in downtown Whakatane - @ 15 George Street ( Under the Quayside Apartments)  Monday to Thursday 8.30-3pm  

Big Dreams Can Happen...
Find out what we do at the Eastern Bay Community Foundation
Little Nippers lifesaving
Find out about giving to our local community funds
Our Funds
Learn about our funds, who they help and applying for a grant
Taneatua Mural
Donate to one of our funds and support your local community
Learn about the people who run the organisation and funds
Got a question about us? Get in touch.
As Opotiki Arts head towards their 50th year, the members have made the decision to launch an endowment fund, to ensure a thriving arts community within the Opotiki District can be sustained. This fund will provide a steady income stream to foster new skills and allow for the exploration of different art disciplines for members and associates. Already a drawcard, the five exhibitions held by Opotiki Arts throughout each year bring visitors to Opotiki, such is the quality and range of art on offer. The reputation of artists in the district attracts a good following from as far afield as Wellington and North Auckland.
Volunteers needed in local charities
Having willing and passionate people with time and skills, who are able to step in and provide a valuable resource when required makes a huge difference to those at the frontline in our not-for-profit sector. Read more about the feedback from our recent Round Table conversations with those charities doing great things in our communities.
Mountain View Care Facility Kawerau
A thoughtful legacy set to benefit the residents of the Mountain View Care facility in Kawerau, has been made a reality by the daughter of a recent resident of Mountain View. Adrienne Lukes was cared for in her twilight years in Kawerau and has left a gift that will provide support for counselling for residents and their families facing challenging circumstances and the end of life, as well as additional occupational therapy - including the use of therapy animals and whatever is needed to enhance the quality of life for residents - to assist them to 'live their best lives'.