Southland Foundation Hits $5m In Funds
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Southland Foundation has hit $5 million in funds under management, a milestone the organisation says reflects the generosity of donors, families and businesses who have chosen to invest in the region's future.
The foundation, established in 2024, stewards charitable funds on behalf of individuals, families and organisations wanting to create lasting community benefit. Reaching $5 million means a larger platform from which to support charitable initiatives across Southland.
"Reaching $5 million in funds under management is an incredibly meaningful milestone for our Foundation," said chair Kathryn Ball. "It reflects the trust our community has placed in us and the generosity of those who believe in the power of collective giving. We are grateful to everyone who has contributed to this journey, and we look forward to building on this momentum to create even greater impact across Southland."
The foundation acknowledges its founding, strategic and professional partners — SBS Bank, ILT, Community Trust South, Distinction Hotel Group, Cruickshank Pryde, McIntyre Dick, Naked Creative, Insurance Brokers Alliance, Southland Business Chamber and Craigs Investment Partners — for their expertise, guidance and advocacy.
General Manager Robyn Koehler said the milestone signals something beyond the balance sheet. "We see this milestone not simply as a financial achievement, but as a reflection of what can be accomplished when people come together around a shared purpose," Koehler said. "Every contribution regardless of size helps create future opportunities for Southland."
The foundation is one of 18 community foundations across New Zealand, offering a permanently governed home for endowment funds. People can contribute during their lifetime or through a gift in a will.
With $5 million in funds under management and a partner network behind it, the foundation says the aim going forward is to grow its philanthropic resources, strengthen local partnerships, and increase capacity to support community aspirations.
Five million dollars. Every one of them, the foundation says, represents someone who chose to invest in Southland's future.