WHAT WE DO
Building futures.
Strengthening communities.
Granting opportunities.
What we do
Check out some of the previous scholarships and grants we have gifted inline with our four purposes.
Evelyn Dijkstra
AGRICULTURAL ADVANCEMENT BY SUPPORTING EDUCATION
Evelyn is working towards her Bachelor of Agricultural Science at Lincoln University and is one of our Scholarship recipients.
Evelyn has been immersed in some exciting research projects since starting her study, and is grateful for all the opportunities and insight she has gained into the dairy industry, with research being a desired career path for her. Evelyn says "I would like to thank Awarua Trust for the support I have received to continue my studies, and I look forward to seeing what 2025 will bring".
Springdale School
MORRINSVILLE COMMUNITY SUPPORT
Awarua Trust recently donated funds to Springdale School to help fulfill their vision of adding an outdoor turf area for the students to enjoy. The project was recently completed, and the students at Springdale School are thrilled with the new addition.
The outdoor turf has created a fantastic space for the kids to play and come together as a school community.
Springdale School is very grateful for the support from Awarua Trust.
Macy Keightley
AGRICULTURAL ADVANCEMENT BY SUPPORTING EDUCATION
Macy, a second-year student of Agribusiness and Food Marketing at Lincoln University, is deeply grateful for the support provided by Awarua Trust through the Scholarship Grant. She is gaining valuable insights into global food chains and understanding the intricate processes that bring food to our plates.
Macy acknowledges that without the Trust's support, she wouldn't have achieved her current level of success in her degree. She is thrilled to continue her studies with the Trust's backing, excited for the knowledge and opportunities that lie ahead.
Kasey Jackson
AGRICULTURAL ADVANCEMENT BY SUPPORTING EDUCATION
Kasey is in her final year studying a Bachelor of Commerce (Agriculture).
Throughout her studies, she has gained knowledge in a variety of different areas, including soil science, plant science, commercial law, farm systems, and farm management.
Kasey is excited to complete her studies and pursue her career in the primary industry sector and grateful for the support Awarua Trust has provided. She says, "I thank Awarua Trust for the ongoing support through my university degree, it has been immensely appreciated!",
Kaelyn Gibberd
AGRICULTURAL ADVANCEMENT BY SUPPORTING EDUCATION
Kaelyn is working towards her Bachelor of Veterinary Science and is another lucky scholarship recipient.
Participating in all of the introductory practicals with a range of animals, and working in the anatomy labs, have been invaluable experiences for Kaelyn during her studies thus far. She is looking forward to more of these experiences over the next few years of study and is grateful to the Trust for the support that enables her financial freedom to study.
Helayna Morell
AGRICULTURAL ADVANCEMENT BY SUPPORTING EDUCATION
Helayna is in her second year of Agricultural Science at Massey University, where she is growing her knowledge and passion for agriculture.
Throughout her degree so far, Helayna has had the opportunity to explore many aspects of the sector and find what interests her most. Currently, that is animal health and welfare and the financial side of things.
Funding from the trust has helped ease some of the financial stress so she can complete her degree to the highest standard.
Tamsyn Sneddon
AGRICULTURAL ADVANCEMENT BY SUPPORTING EDUCATION
Tamsyn is one of our Awarua Trust Scholarship recipients, who is currently studying Animal Science.
The grant has allowed Tamsyn to reduce time spent worrying about financing her tertiary education, and focus on the education itself. Tamsyn says, "I can focus on my studies without the added financial stress. The Awarua Trust Scholarship does exactly what one should - allowing students to study without extra financial pressure!"
Kate Morton
AGRICULTURAL ADVANCEMENT BY SUPPORTING EDUCATION
Kate, another great Scholarship recipient that Awarua Trust is proud to support, is currently in her 2nd year, working towards a Bachelor of Agricultural Science.
The support she receives has meant Kate can reduce her work hours and spend more time focused on studying, and hopefully stick to her goal of coming out of study debt-free.
Hannah Gordon
AGRICULTURAL ADVANCEMENT BY SUPPORTING EDUCATION
Hannah is a current Awarua Trust Scholarship recipient and is working towards a Bachelor of Engineering at Waikato University. She has a strong passion for the agricultural industry and hopes to explore career options in the agricultural field once her studies are complete.
Hannah says " The scholarship from Awarua Trust has eased financial pressures and allowed me to focus on both my studies and involvement in sports. The trust's generosity not only supports my education but has motivated me to work hard and give back to the rural community in the future".
Grace Arcus
AGRICULTURAL ADVANCEMENT BY SUPPORTING EDUCATION
Grace is a 5th and final year Bachelor of Veterinary Science student at Massey University, and Awarua Trust has been proud to support Grace with her university costs throughout those years.
The end of Grace's studying journey is near, and she is very excited to finish her degree and explore her endless career opportunities.
Grace says "This funding has played a significant role in helping me pursue my studies and achieve my academic and career goals. The Trust's generosity has not only eased financial pressure but also motivated me to strive for excellence in my studies".
Jacoba Gread
AGRICULTURAL ADVANCEMENT BY SUPPORTING EDUCATION
Jacoba is working towards a Bachelor of Business, majoring in Agribusiness and Marketing, and is a current Awarua Trust Scholarship recipient.
Since starting her study, Jacoba has significantly developed in the academic field, and has learnt a lot about the surrounding industries and technicalities behind creating a successful business environment.
Jacoba says "I sincerely thank Awarua Trust for their ongoing support through my studies, they have allowed me to focus on my academics and ease financial pressures towards course fees for the following years".
Claire Morris
AGRICULTURAL ADVANCEMENT BY SUPPORTING EDUCATION
Claire Morris is a current Scholarship recipient of the Awarua Trust, who is in her 3rd year at Massey University, working towards her Bachelor of Animal Science, majoring in Genetics and Breeding.
Awarua Trust has supported Claire since her first semester in 2023, and she is extremely grateful for the support. With the financial support from the Trust, Claire has been able to reduce her financial strain during her time studying and really prioritise her studies.
Ashleigh Mayall
AGRICULTURAL ADVANCEMENT BY SUPPORTING EDUCATION
Ashleigh Mayall is a current Scholarship recipient of the Awarua Trust, who is in her third year as a veterinary student at Massey University.
Ashleigh is incredibly grateful to be a recipient of the Awarua Trust Scholarship and says, "The support has and will continue to greatly assist me in furthering my education and gaining valuable experience in rural veterinary practice".
Tahuna School
MORRINSVILLE COMMUNITY SUPPORT
Awarua Trust was proud to support Tahuna School recently, with a contribution towards the cover for their new turfed, all-weather courts. This cover enhances the school's facilities and provides an additional outdoor learning space. With this new cover, the courts can be utilised throughout the year, regardless of weather conditions, ensuring that students have a versatile and reliable area for sports and other activities.
MenzShed Morrinsville
MORRINSVILLE COMMUNITY SUPPORT
The Trust recently gifted funds to the MenzShed Morrinsville. These funds were directed towards their new premises on Canada Street and the necessary Fire Safety System for the building.
The Trust is honored to support this outstanding community organisation.
The new facility will enable MenzShed to continue their invaluable work and provide additional space for their community-focused activities.
Emma Gordon
AGRICULTURAL ADVANCEMENT BY SUPPORTING EDUCATION
Emma Gordon is a current Scholarship recipient of the Awarua Trust, working towards her Bachelor of Agriculture Science at Lincoln University.
As Emma continues her studies in Agricultural Science, she is eager to broaden her knowledge of the industry. This semester, she is delving deeper into Animal Sciences and farm development/investments. Additionally, she is learning how to support farmers in adopting change through studying a consultancy paper.
Emma says "Awarua Trust has provided me with immense support throughout my studies, of which I am deeply grateful to all of those who helped provide this support. This has allowed me to concentrate fully on my academics, easing the financial pressures and enabling me to achieve the results I strive for".
Mikaela Hossack
AGRICULTURAL ADVANCEMENT BY SUPPORTING EDUCATION
Mikaela Hossack, a current Awarua Trust Scholarship recipient, is pursuing her Bachelor of Veterinary Science at Massey University.
Recently, Mikaela completed an intensive 2-day block course, where she engaged in various farm-related activities. She learned how to drive a tractor, and milk cows, and gained insights into organic dairy farming. The course also covered the rationale behind different farming procedures and processes, and how to work with animals in diverse environments effectively.
Mikaela says "This was an incredible experience, made possible by Awarua Trust. The trust is helping me achieve my dreams by the ongoing contribution to my degree, and for that, I am forever grateful!"
Piako Cultural Festival
MORRINSVILLE COMMUNITY SUPPORT
The Trust was honored to support Morrinsville School in hosting the recent Piako Cultural Festival. Our contribution helped cover the event’s running costs, allowing numerous Kapa Haka groups from the Morrinsville region to come together and perform in front of their whanau's.
The school were very grateful for the support, which helped make the day "very successful!"
Jessica Schmidt
AGRICULTURAL ADVANCEMENT BY SUPPORTING EDUCATION
Jessica Schmidt is a current Scholarship recipient of the Awarua Trust, working towards her Bachelor of Veterinary Science Degree at Massey University.
Jessica says "I am truly grateful for the ongoing support from the Awarua Trust throughout the course of my vet studies. It has enabled me to live up to my potential in an academically challenging degree, and further contribute to the Massey community. The Awarua Trust scholarship funds more than just my academic endeavours, it also further enables my future plans and I couldn’t be more appreciative for their contribution to my aspirations."
Health Shuttle Service & Donny Van
MORRINSVILLE COMMUNITY SUPPORT
In 2023, Awarua Trust was privileged to provide a grant to the Friends of Morrinsville Community Charitable Trust, enabling them to sustain their Health Shuttle and Donny Van services. These essential services offer transportation to community members in need, and the grant served as a crucial financial lifeline, allowing the Morrinsville Community Charitable Trust to maintain operations during challenging times.
Tayla McDonald
AGRICULTURAL ADVANCEMENT BY SUPPORTING EDUCATION
Tayla McDonald is a current Scholarship recipient of the Awarua Trust. Tayla was accepted in February 2022 and is currently in her third year of her Degree.
During High School Tayla discovered what she wanted to do, which is to apply science through research to improve the efficiency and sustainability of agricultural and horticultural practices. Tayla is completing a Bachelor of Science at Massey University to build the knowledge and practical skills needed to research genetics in relation to sustainable agriculture and human/animal disease. Following her Bachelor Degree, Tayla aims to complete her Masters's degree at Massey University, followed by a PhD.
Tayla recently completed the first Semester of her third year of Study. Tayla states “Looking ahead, I am eager to delve deeper into genetics, molecular cell biology, and microorganisms this semester as part of my continued studies. I extend my sincere thanks to everyone involved in making this scholarship possible. It has enabled me to pursue my academic goals to the fullest and has been instrumental in my outstanding academic achievements.”
Ryan Olesen
AGRICULTURAL ADVANCEMENT BY SUPPORTING EDUCATION
The Awarua Trust schlorship was a life saver for Ryan Olesen, who prior to embarking on veterinarian studies, had exhausted other student support whiling completing a double major degree in Earth and Ocean Science, and Geography. Unable to identify a satisfying career path, he then took himself off to Lincoln University, where with Awarua Trusts support, he graduated with a Diploma in Agriculture, Commerce and Business Management.
Ryan is now a qualified Vet working at Morrinsville Vet Clinic and is grateful to the support Awarua Trust has given him to enhance his education and career path.
Shana Williams
AGRICULTURAL ADVANCEMENT BY SUPPORTING EDUCATION
Shana Williams, grew up on the family farm and knew from an early age, that she desired to work in the agricultural industry. Once leaving Te Aroha College, Shana moved to Dunedin and completed her Bachelor of Science Degree. Through the support and scholarships gifted from Awarua Trust, Shana completed her studies and now works at Tatua, initially carrying out microbiology and chemistry testing, and recently moving into the company's research and development team.
Solomon Islands Medical Mission Charitable Trust
RELIEF OF POVERTY IN THE PACIFIC ISLANDS
Re-build of the Ablution Block at Fauabu Health Clinic
The Health Clinic Ablution Block project presented an opportunity for the Trust to make a meaningful impact. Doubling the size and capacity of the block through upgrades and refurbishments, including the installation of flowing taps, showers, and toilets, marked a significant improvement.
Reverend Peter Rickman, from the Solomon Island Medical Mission Charitable Trust (SIMM), says "The generous support from Awarua Trust has made the ablution block a much better space."
Borehole Fencing at Fauabu Health Clinic
Awarua Trust is proud to have contributed to the Fauabu Health Clinic again in October 2023, where the trust provided some funds to enable the construction of fencing around their borehole, to create a safe and protected environment at the clinic.
Morrinsville Art Gallery - Purchase of Grand Piano
MORRINSVILLE COMMUNITY SUPPORT
In April 2023, Awarua Trust played a role in enriching the cultural landscape of Morrinsville by helping facilitate the purchase of a Grand Piano for the Morrinsville Art Gallery. This elegant instrument now graces the gallery, adding a touch of sophistication to its ambiance and serving as a centerpiece for various events hosted within its walls.
Medical Supplies at Fauabu Health Clinic
In 2023, Awarua Trust also provided some funds to the Fauabu Health Clinic to allow them to purchase some medical supplies.
"The medical supplies have completely transformed not only the clinical practice for the nurses and patients but also given them such a boost in morale." says Reverend Peter Rickman, from the Solomon Island Medical Mission Charitable Trust (SIMM) "It's so good to see the incredible & positive change that has been brought by the trusts support and generosity! On behalf of the Health Committee of the clinic and the people here, our sincere thanks!"
Tahuna Volunteer Fire Brigade
MORRINSVILLE COMMUNITY SUPPORT
In 2018, Awarua Trust helped support the Tahuna Volunteer Fire Brigade in getting a replacement engine and gearbox in their Fire Response Truck. The truck, which is fully funded by the brigade (not the NZ Fire Service), needed the repairs in order to continue operation and allow the fire fighters to continue their incredible work and response efforts.
Morrinsville Rugby & Sports Club - New Kitchen
MORRINSVILLE COMMUNITY SUPPORT
The Trust enthusiastically approved the grant for the refurbishment of the Clubrooms kitchen at Morrinsville Rugby & Sports Club. As a hub for various community events, including rugby, the upgraded clubrooms now feature a spacious commercial kitchen. This enhancement is sure to elevate the club's ability to host gatherings and serve the community with excellence.
Solomon Islands - Classroom at The Mother Emily Kindergarten
RELIEF OF POVERTY IN THE PACIFIC ISLANDS
As part of a large project, Awarua Trust helped fund the relocation and refurbishment of Mother Emily Kindergarten, a children's health community centre. The centre provides schooling & medical care for the children of families working in the palm oil, cocoa and coconut plantations. The upgraded facilities mean the world to the staff and allow them to better serve the community.
Pukemokemoke Bush Reserve
MORRINSVILLE COMMUNITY SUPPORT
When Pukemokemoke Trust approached Awarua Trust for support with their boardwalk project, the Trust was eager to provide assistance. Constructing the boardwalk demanded extensive effort and volunteer involvement across numerous working bees. Despite the project spanning several months, the outcome is nothing short of remarkable and something the community can enjoy!
David Street School - Outdoor Area
MORRINSVILLE COMMUNITY SUPPORT
The senior students at David Street School came up with a concept of how to best use the space outside their Senior Classrooms. With the support from Awarua Trust and others in the community, their creative vision has blossomed into a beautifully landscaped outdoor area, now a vibrant reality. This transformed space features a captivating giant chess board, inviting outdoor seating with cover, and a flourishing vegetable garden, offering not just a recreational spot but also an educational and communal sanctuary for the students to enjoy.
Morrinsville Squash Club - Kitchen Upgrade
MORRINSVILLE COMMUNITY SUPPORT
In April 2023, Awarua Trust demonstrated their commitment to community well-being by pledging to support the Morrinsville Squash Club's kitchen upgrade. This contribution (alongside other community support) enhanced the club's facilities, creating a more functional environment for members to enjoy.