Our Impact in 2022
Presenting our 2022 Impact Report
2022 was a particularly significant year for Nikau Foundation. We farewelled and welcomed team members, established new funds to support our region forever and placed greater focus and investment on areas that directly support our communities.
Most significantly, we were so proud to give out over $1 million in grants to support our communities.
Letter from the Chair
“Our communities face persistent social, economic and environmental challenges, so the role that community foundations play is critical.
Nikau Foundation's long-term focus and purpose to create reliable funding avenues mean we can stand by them to deliver their services and support our communities’ needs, no matter the circumstances.”
Letter from the ED
“There is no other network of philanthropic foundations that can support donors to truly realise their giving goals and connect them to the greatest need. Every gift, large or small, forms a part of our story and the impact we have today, tomorrow and for generations to come.”
Stories of Impact:
Supporting older generations to navigate the digital world.
Digital Seniors’ story started when CEO, Cathy Hardinge discovered that the digital divide was particularly strong in people aged over 65. Digital Seniors now offers digital competency training in a variety of subjects to older people throughout the Wairarapa, and sought funding to expand this service into rest homes in the region.
Promoting social change through performance and the arts.
Founded 20 years ago by Artistic Director Nina Nawalowalo ONZM and Executive Producer Tom McCrory, The Conch Charitable Trust has created a platform for the telling of Pacific stories across the globe, presenting theatrical works at over 40 international festivals. In 2022, Nikau Foundation supported The Conch’s beautifully poignant production of A Boy Called Piano.
Strengthening the story of an important Wellington institution.
Now in its 95th year, Wellington Free Ambulance is one of our region’s most well-known for-purpose organisations. With a goal to strengthen their storytelling, Wellington Free Ambulance undertook a GoodMeasure Report with local organisation, ImpactLab. Nikau Foundation was delighted to support this important project, helping Wellington Free Ambulance to remain free, forever.
Stories of Generosity:
An enduring gift for the city Mark helped to build.
For those who know Sir Mark Dunajtschik and his life and business partner, Dorothy Spotswood, their plans to give a gift in their will will come at no surprise. They have a long and impressive history of giving back to our community. Nikau Foundation is delighted to be managing Sir Mark Dunjtachik’s bequest - an incredible gift, which will become The Mark Dunajtschik Foundation.
Helping students to unlock their potential forever.
Nestled down a quiet road in Masterton, St Matthew’s Collegiate School has a long history of educating confident, resilient and successful young women. In late 2021, the St Matthew’s Old Girls’ Association established a Fund with Nikau Foundation to ensure students can unlock their potential through scholarship opportunities long into the future.
An enduring legacy for one of Wellington’s most progressive women.
In 2019, what was then known as the Sprott House Trust changed its name to the Edith Sprott Trust. More than just a name change, it was a compelling statement to the woman behind its long history. In 2022, the Trust established the Edith Sprott Fund to give back to older people and people with dementia, forever, ensuring that Edith’s name will continue to make an impact on our communities as it has for over 120-years.