The fund aims to build community resilience to the effects of climate change by focusing on local needs and community-led solutions.

The council has $600,000 to invest in projects that meet the funding criteria, and eligible groups can apply for between $5,000 and $40,000, plus GST.

Applications must be for projects in Te Taitokerau and from a legal community entity, such as hapū or iwi groups, community or neighbourhood groups, education providers, social enterprises and not-for-profit businesses.

The fund will support projects focusing on food resilience (Te Kai); water resilience (Te Wai); energy resilience (Te Ngao); nature-based resilience (Te Taiao); and planning for resilience (Ngā mahi Whakamahere).

Roughly 86% of Northland’s regional emissions come from agriculture and transport. The remainder come from stationary energy, waste and industrial processes and product use.

"The changing climate will make it harder to maintain a reliable food, water, and energy supply and may cause added pressure on our local ecosystems. More frequent and intense storms, floods, droughts and wildfires are disrupting our lives, impacting our wellbeing, and damaging our homes and community infrastructure," the council says.

"We can prepare by better understanding what our future could bring and by implementing solutions to transform our society and economy. Taking proactive steps today can reduce the impact of challenges and minimise costs for future generations.

"The Climate Resilient Communities Fund supports communities to undertake immediate and meaningful action to build resilience. Communities can't tackle everything alone, but we can support projects that inspire change and foster self-reliance."

In 2024, nearly 100 community groups applied in the first round of the Climate Resilient Communities Fund.

Applications close 3 June 2025.