Otago Community Trust (OCT) is asking communities across Otago ‘what matters most’ – a question that will determine how it works with communities to provide crucial funding.

Since 1988, OCT has provided more than $230M in grants, supporting thousands of kaupapa across North, Central, and South Otago. 

Projects supported by the trust have ranged from funding Snow Sports NZ’s competitive pathways projects, to youth development programmes in Cromwell, to the return of the tīeke [Saddleback] to mainland Otago after more than a century.

Now, OCT is asking what matters most to ensure the trust's future work continues to reflect the communities it serves, via a three-minute online survey.

OCT is also hosting a series of in-person and online hui over the next two months to enable everyone to take part. These include one at the Wānaka Community Hub (5.30-7.30pm on Tuesday October 28); at the Luggate Hall (6-8pm on November 13); and a Zoom meeting (from 12-1pm on November 17).

“This is a chance for Otago communities to shape their own future – not just for today, but for the generations to come,” OCT chief executive Jemma Adams said.

“We've always been guided by community voice, and this survey – asking he aha te mea nui, what matters most – is another important step in making sure we're aligned with the aspirations people see for their own places.

“We know the best ideas and solutions always come from the ground, so we're really hoping people will take the three minutes to share their whakaaro [thoughts]. It will make a real difference.” 

OCT’s last major planning process took place in 2021 when Covid-19 made it difficult to engage with communities in person.

“Since we last asked these questions, communities across our rohe [region] have changed, and so have the challenges and opportunities they’re facing. We want to make sure we’re responding to that, and that means hearing from as many voices as possible.” 

The survey is open for another five weeks and can be completed here.

PHOTO: Stock Image