Preparing your application begins with clear kaupapa, an active legal entity, a defined project plan, and approval from those with legal authority.
We have prepared a complete information pack to provide you with a comprehensive overview of the fund and the application process. Use this as a quick reference guide to assist you.
Application overview - Te tirohanga tono pūtea
Applying to the fund involves several stages, from early planning through to agreement and approved mahi on the whenua. Although applications are not currently open, this information has been provided to help whānau and landowners understand the process ahead of future funding rounds.
Application pathway
Key preparation: Understand the kaupapa and fund criteria. Confirm your entity is legally able to apply. Read the Fund Application Guide to help you prepare the necessary information and documentation for the Application Form.
After you apply: Application is checked to confirm eligibility. You may be asked to correct or supply missing documents. If legal capacity cannot be confirmed, the process stops.
Assessment: Your application is assessed against fund criteria and additional criteria as required.
Contact: You will be advised of the outcome of your application. If successful, your Kaitakawaenga will be in touch to progress the application into a proposal.
Decision process; If supported, proposal is submitted to the Te Taumata ō Ngā Whenua Rāhui who determine if it goes to the Minister to be signed. If approved, you sign a formal agreement. Work begins under the agreed terms.
Also important
- Understand the kaupapa of the fund to ensure your project fits and that your project aligns with the criteria
- Ensure there is an active legal entity in place that administers the whenua you are seeking to protect
- Have your objectives and project brief clearly defined, and
- Have documented approval form the legally entitled persons to make the application
Nga hononga whai take – useful links
Applications to the Ngā Whenua Rāhui fund have now closed.
If you would like to learn more about the Ngā Whenua Rāhui fund, contact the team at kaitakawaenga@doc.govt.nz. Below are helpful links and resources to assist you with future applications to the fund.
- Property title: Toitū Te Whenua - Land Information New Zealand
- Māori Land Court: Pātaka Whenua Online
- Ngā Whenua Rāhui Online Mapping tool
Contact us
If you have any questions about the fund or require assistance, email kaitakawaenga@doc.govt.nz. Or you can hover over the area on the NWR Regions Map where your whenua is located – the name and contact details of the relevant Kaitakawaenga will pop up.
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