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
The fund application process has several stages, from early preparation through to agreement and approved mahi on the whenua. This can take time, so the information below offers a quick view of what to expect and when you will hear from your Kaitakawaenga. It helps you see the full pathway before you begin.
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.
Ready to apply: Complete the online application form. Submit your application between 1 March and 30 April.
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 Komiti 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 fun 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
Ready to apply? – E rite ana ki te tono?
Applications to the Ngā Whenua Rāhui fund have now closed.
Thank you to those who have applied to the fund. If you were unable to complete your application due to issues with our online form, let the team know by emailing kaitakawaenga@doc.govt.nz. Our Kaitakawaenga are also available to support you if you are having any difficulties completing your application.
The Fund application guide will assist you to complete your online application.
Other useful links:
- Property title: Toitū Te Whenua - Land Information New Zealand
- Māori Land Court: Pātaka Whenua Online
- Ngā Whenua Rāhui Online Mapping tool
Assessing applications - Tātaritanga tono
Once we receive your completed application, the information is reviewed to confirm eligibility. If this requirement is met, your application is assessed against the criteria by the assessment panel. There are a number of variables that determine how long this process will take.
You will then be advised of the assessment process and the next steps.
Contact us
If you have any questions about the fund or require assistance with completing your application form, contact your regional Kaitakawaenga. Hover over the area on the Ngā Whenua Rāhui regions map where your whenua is located, the name and contact details of the relevant Kaitakawaenga will pop up.
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