Ashburton District has a number of heritage buildings and items that help form the district's identity. Protecting these buildings and items helps to retain a connection to the district's history which in turn gives the community a sense of place and belonging.

Council recognises the importance of these heritage buildings and items to the district and the shared responsibility it has with the community to ensure these are preserved and/or restored for current and future generations. Council provides annual Heritage Grants through two contestable grant application processes held in August and February of each financial year.

Purpose

The purpose of the Heritage Grant Scheme is to assist projects that promote the preservation and/or restoration of heritage buildings and items in Ashburton District.

Funding

The maximum individual grant available is $10,000 and can be no more than 50% of the total project cost. The applicants’ share of the project’s cost can be in kind work or materials, or financial. Volunteer time shall be estimated using the minimum wage at the time of the application.