Read on to find out about the passionate people and organisations behind this initiative, or click through to find out about the community organisations we support.
With a background in the non-profit sector, social development and change leadership, Ash is a passionate advocate for the power of collaboration and simply getting stuck in.
“Having called Wānaka home for many years, I have a deep love for this place and the environment that makes it so special. With a young family, a local business, and a love of the lakes, rivers, and mountains that define our region, it’s a privilege to work in this space.
I hope my children can be proud of the legacy our industry has created, and know the love and care that went into protecting this precious piece of Te Waipounamu for generations to come”
Ash Bickley, Love Wānaka Community Fund Coordinator
Love Wānaka and Love Queenstown are delivered in partnership with the 45South Community Foundation – a donor driven charitable trust that supports local philanthropy in our region. 45 South was integral to the development of Love Wānaka and Love Queenstown, and continues to support in an advisory, audit and compliance capacity.
Love Wānaka and Love Queenstown were the first projects to come to life from the region’s Destination Management Plan: Travel to a Thriving Future.
Led by Lake Wānaka Tourism and Destination Queenstown, the Destination Management Plan exists to ensure tourism creates lasting benefits for our environment, communities, culture and economy.
You can learn more about the plan, and progress against the goals here.
Our independent distribution committee is tasked with setting the overall distribution strategy, assessing applications, and making funding recommendations. This committee consists of local experts in both the grant-making and sustainability / environmental space.
The 2026 Committee includes: Matthew Day (Chair), Fiona McPhee, Julie Perry, Megan Williams, David Butt and Euni Borrie (45 South representative).
We’re backed by an incredible community of businesses.
Click here to find out more about our partners and supporters.
Or, if you want to be one, simply contact us.
