Apply now for Auckland’s new $1m Climate and Emergency Readiness Fund for community action

Applications are now open for Te Ara Urutau - Climate and Emergency Ready Fund, a new $1 million combined fund. The fund is designed to help community organisations across Tāmaki Makaurau take bold, practical action on climate change and emergency preparedness.

The fund brings previous and new related grants into a single, streamlined process, making it easier for communities to access support for projects that reduce emissions, strengthen emergency readiness, and adapt to the impacts of a changing climate.

Councillor Alf Filipaina, Chair of the Civil Defence and Emergency Management Committee says, "Every community has unique strengths and challenges when it comes to climate change and emergency readiness. This fund is about empowering local and Māori led solutions, supporting those who know their people and whenua best."

"I encourage communities to put their ideas forward so we can continue protecting our whānau and the places we call home."

Applications are welcome from a wide range of organisations delivering positive outcomes for their communities. This includes not-for-profits, mana whenua and Māori organisations, neighbourhood groups, schools, social enterprises, and business improvement districts.

This fund can help groups at any stage on their emergency readiness or climate action journey. Through a single application form, groups can apply for up to two of the following project categories:

Emergency Readiness and Response Funding

Supporting communities to prepare for natural disasters and extreme weather. (Grants from $5,000 to $15,000)

Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Funding

Backing community and Māori led projects that cut carbon emissions and support sustainable practices. (Grants from $5,000 to $15,000)

Climate Adaptation Planning and Implementation

Enabling community-led responses to challenges such as flooding, sea-level rise and drought. (Grants from $5,000 to $40,000, with additional funding available for implementation)

Community organisations may recognise elements of this grant fund from prior Auckland Climate Grant rounds.

Key dates

Applications are now open (2 February 2026)
Online webinar: 5 February 11.30am - 12.30pm
Applications close: 8 March 2026
Funding decisions: by end of May 2026

Want to understand more about the fund? Council representatives will provide a summary of the fund and process to apply via an online webinar on Thursday, 5 February. Questions can be sent anytime to [email protected].

For full guidelines, eligibility information, and how to apply, visit the Auckland Climate Action website.