Creative Communities Scheme

Creative New Zealand fully fund the grants and Tasman District Council administers them locally.

Application form and guide   

We have an exciting new, simplified online application system called SmartyGrants. Now with SmartyGrants, it’s more straightforward to apply. All applicants need to do is create a profile and fill out the application form. It’s then permanently held online, making it much easier for groups to track and manage applications going forward.

• Tasman Creative Communities Scheme Guide.pdf (pdf 1.8 MB) 
• Please apply here: https://tasman.smartygrants.com.au/CCSJuly2026(external link)

If you have any problems with applying online, please email us at [email protected] and we can help you through the application process.

There are three funding rounds per year. Closing dates are:

• 10 March
• 10 July
• 10 November

Funding criteria

Projects must meet one or more of the following funding criteria:

Broad community involvement

The project will create opportunities for local communities to engage with and participate in arts activities.

Diversity

The project will support the diverse arts and cultural traditions of local communities, enriching and promoting their uniqueness and cultural diversity.

Young people

The project will enable and encourage young people (under 18 years) to engage with and actively participate in the arts.

Selection process

A Council appointed assessment committee made up of local councillors and community members considers all applications and apportions available funds accordingly.

Note: Not all arts activities are funded. Please read the guide to ensure your project meets the criteria

Accountability/Progress reporting

An acquittal form must be submitted on completion of your project or a progress report if your project is ongoing. Reporting dates are as follows: 

• For the March funding round the reporting date is 30 November.
• For the July funding round the reporting date is 31 March the following year.
• For the November funding round the reporting date is 31 July the following year.

Download a copy of the Accountability form here. (pdf 167 KB) Please email your completed form to [email protected].

Download the logo

You can download the Creative Communities logo to use on your publicity material. 

• Download the logo(external link)

Further information

For further information contact the Community Partnership Coordinator, Tasman District Council

Or contact your local Community Arts Council:

Arts Council Nelson

PO Box 566, Nelson
Phone: (03) 548 4640
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.acn.org.nz(external link)

Motueka and Districts Community Arts Council

PO Box 121, Motueka
Phone: (03) 540 3219
Email: [email protected]

Golden Bay Community Arts Council

PO Box 74, Tākaka
Phone: (03) 525 9556
Email: [email protected]