Transformational Projects

Leading transformational community projects – Waikato Regional Theatre

Momentum Waikato leads the project to build and activate the new Waikato Regional Theatre, the world-class multi-purpose performing arts centre due to open in the Hamilton CBD in 2024.

Momentum stepped up in 2016 when the Hamilton City Council needed a partner to facilitate a new premium venue for the city and region. Since then, it has driven a $80 million fundraising effort and set up and enabled the project’s governance bodies, successfully navigating a host of challenges along the way. Find out more at sharethestage.co.nz.

Supplying start-up funding - Pūniu River Care

Momentum Waikato provided start-up capital for Pūniu River Care, a marae-based social enterprise near Te Awamutu. Since then they have planted millions of trees, thereby creating meaningful employment, teaching job skills, building community and culture, and delivering tangible environmental benefits.

Connecting and Convening – Kimihia Lake

Momentum Waikato has been ‘connecting and convening’ to support and accelerate the Kimihia Lake Restoration project near Huntly since 2020. Advice and networking has assisted the Kimihia Lakes Trust to plan and develop, a financial underwrite for a restoration plan released Treasury funding, and the Huntly Karioi Trust Fund has been taken on to support youth outdoor recreation training at the site.

Securing the purpose of community assets – Tirohanga

Momentum Waikato was gifted the Houchen’s Retreat in Glenview by the Houchen family in 2019, on the promise it would be revitalised and continue to serve its local community. This has been realised through a partnership with the Wise Group, which has transformed it into Tirohanga – the Houchen Wellbeing Space, where they offer a range of wellbeing services and spaces.