Second-intake applications sought

A109 Light Utility Helicopter flight with mayor Gisborne City from the air in November 2023.

Applications for the second intake of the shared services programme Taupua Tairāwhiti close on Friday, February 18.

The aim of the shared services initiative is to provide a fit-for-purpose entity that offers a range of services for the sporting community and not-for-profit sector. These services include financial management, administration and information management, and communications.

Taupua Tairāwhiti project manager Leanne Harrison said they were excited to be able to take on more groups so quickly after they launched last year.

“We're able to do this because our current groups have been so responsive, and we've worked with them to get a range of great results in just four short months.

“With our modelling, we know we can keep supporting them but also have space to expand our reach and take on more community groups that need a little extra help to reach the next level.”

Seven organisations signed up for the first intake — Gisborne Basketball Association, Gisborne Riding for the Disabled, Gisborne Boardriders Club, Swim for Life, Horouta Waka Hoe, Parafed Tairāwhiti and Tairāwhiti Softball Association.

“The support we have received from Taupua Tairāwhiti has been amazing,” Amy Hopkins, of Gisborne Riding for the Disabled, said.

“It's reassuring to know that our financials are in good hands, allowing us to focus on our purpose, reaching more riders and changing more lives.”

Applications and more information about Taupua Tairāwhiti can be found on the Sport Gisborne Tairāwhiti website. Successful applicants will be notified about mid-March.