Tauranga has been selected as one of 300 cities worldwide to receive funding through the Bloomberg Philanthropies Youth Climate Action Fund, creating new opportunities for local rangatahi to turn their climate action ideas into reality.
The city will receive USD $50,000 (approximately NZD $85,000) to support rangatahi aged 15 to 24 to develop and deliver projects that help address climate challenges in their communities. Grants of between $2,000 and $8,000 will be available for eligible youth-led initiatives in Tauranga.
Mayor Mahé Drysdale says the fund is a fantastic opportunity for young people who are passionate about climate change and the environment to have a real impact in our community.
“Rangatahi bring fresh perspectives, creativity and energy to the challenges facing our city, and this fund gives them the chance to turn their ideas into action and deliver projects that can make a positive difference locally.”
Mayor Mahé says Tauranga is one of only two cities in New Zealand, alongside Christchurch, to be awarded funding through the Bloomberg Philanthropies programme.
“Being one of the first cities in the country to receive this support is a significant achievement and reflects our commitment to building a more resilient and sustainable future for Tauranga.”
The Youth Climate Action Fund is a global initiative led by Bloomberg Philanthropies that supports cities to work alongside young people to deliver local climate solutions.
Projects can focus on areas such as climate education, sustainable transport, community resilience, biodiversity, environmental restoration, waste reduction or other initiatives that align with Tauranga’s climate priorities.
Project enquiries are open now, with applications opening on 10 August 2026.
Young people do not need to have a fully developed project plan before getting in touch, says Welcome Bay Ward Councillor Hautapu Baker.
“You don’t need to have everything figured out before reaching out to us. If you have an idea that could support climate action in Tauranga, we encourage you to start the conversation.
“We can help young people develop their ideas and connect them with support organisations that can assist throughout the project.”
Parents, caregivers, schools, youth organisations and community groups are encouraged to share the opportunity with young people who may be interested.
To be eligible, applicants must be aged 15 to 24, work with at least one other young person, deliver their project in Tauranga, and partner with an organisation that can provide support and oversee the funding.
For more information, visit: letstalk.tauranga.govt.nz/youth-climate-action
Email youthclimateaction@tauranga.govt.nz to chat to the team and get prepared ahead of applications opening.