The tide is rising on Motueka’s aquatic centre fundraising, with the community total now surpassing $1 million.
The funds raised so far include $645,000 in the bank, boosted by a $400,000 donation from Nelson’s Ngawhatu Pool Users Inc in 2024.
Private pledges total $275,000, while community group pledges amount to $180,000, including long-standing commitments from Motueka’s Lions Foundation and Rotary Club.
The community needs to raise $4.4 million for its share of the $20 million project, and aquatic centre committee chair Ross Loveridge says the group is firmly committed to reaching that target by the beginning of 2027.
Private donors range in age from seven to 90 years old, and Ross believes the seven-figure milestone reflects the strength of the community’s belief in the project.
“It is good to see the Motueka Aquatic Centre progressing on all fronts, with fundraising cracking along and Tasman District Council staff prepared for the next steps in securing a design and build contractor.”
The project was the nominated charity for both the Motueka New World Starlight Christmas Parade and the Christmas in the Park Richmond events.
Meanwhile, the recent Pauls Skydive Challenge managed to raise blood pressure, awareness and funds towards the campaign.
There are also ongoing “small event” fundraisers such as bingo nights, car boot sales and quiz nights which keep funds steadily flowing in.
“We’re set to go in 2026, with fundraising growing and the design and build contracts set to progress from January,” Ross says.
