Strong, connected communities are built through the everyday mahi of local clubs, groups, and organisations. The people creating spaces for participation, wellbeing, and belonging across South Waikato.
2025 saw SWIFT support 58 community organisations. This has included support for a diverse range of initiatives that contribute to participation, connection, and wellbeing. Some examples include:
BBM Tokoroa, a local fitness group offering free community fitness sessions, used its funding to purchase additional gym equipment – increasing capacity and access for participants.
The Tokoroa Netball Centre delivered a netball development programme for Year 7–13 representative players, supporting skill development, confidence, and local talent pathways.
Putāruru Community Gardens strengthened food resilience by purchasing materials to enhance winter crop production and improve access to fresh produce.
The Arapuni Bowling Club is refreshing its clubrooms, enhancing an important shared space that supports social connection and intergenerational engagement.
While each initiative is different, together they show how targeted, locally responsive support creates ripple effects that extend well beyond the initial contribution.
While relationships and trust sit at the heart of this mahi, SWIFT’s approach is also evidence‑led. Research from Sport NZ shows that for every $1 invested in recreational physical activity, there is a social return of $2.12, including improved physical and mental health, stronger social cohesion, positive outcomes for rangatahi, and reduced pressure on health and social services.
Applying a Social Return on Investment (SROI) lens helps SWIFT understand the longer‑term impact created through relatively modest contributions – particularly in districts like South Waikato, where clubs and community organisations often serve as vital hubs of connection.
By staying connected to local groups and grounding decisions in both evidence and lived experience, SWIFT continues to support the social foundations that underpin a strong, resilient South Waikato.
