Giving into our communities, both through our time and our resources, plays an important part in the kiwi psyche. Here in New Zealand, we understand and support a giving culture, however what is not widely understood is the part played, and the rationale behind, our country’s tax incentives to promote giving and philanthropy.

Our relatively uncomplicated system in New Zealand, of a 33% rebate for charitable donations over $5 (up to the level of income tax paid), makes it straightforward for donors to reduce their tax paid while simultaneously increasing support for charitable causes and community groups. 

Not only is giving back to important causes hugely satisfying, but donors can also receive a 33.3% tax credit on all gifts made before 31 March (up to the level of your taxable income).

Over the last couple of years, Acorn has put a real emphasis on the benefits of the Acorn Vital Impact Fund. This fund was established in 2009 to address our region’s biggest issues. The Vital Impact Fund has now distributed over $174,000 to 34 local charities and community groups, which shows the power of collective giving.

How does the Vital Impact Fund work?

All donations are pooled and invested, generating returns year after year. Each year, the recipients of the fund are decided by Acorn’s Volunteer Distributions Committee. This busy group works with Jo Wilson and Campbell Higgins to best understand community needs. We have representatives from Katikati to Te Puke so we can cover the region effectively.

We encourage all our current donors and people who are in the process of thinking about their charitable giving to consider a gift to the Vital Impact Fund. Last year the Vital Impact Fund supported seven different organisations which cover a range of food support, including:

• Tauranga Community Foodbank
• Good Neighbour
• Super Support
• The Hub Te Puke
• Under the Stars
• Ōtūmoetai Social Supermarket
• Kura Kai

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