Three Christchurch organisations have received substantial funding from Pub Charity to enhance their services and support for the community.
The Isaac Theatre Royal, RDU 98.5FM (student radio), and Coastguard Canterbury are among the recipients of the latest round of grants.
The Isaac Theatre Royal was awarded $86,700 for a new lighting console. Marketing and Development Manager Bianca Lindstrom said the purchase would make the theatre more accessible for a broader range of community groups.
“Previously, users had to hire their own console at significant cost. Offering this as part of the venue opens the theatre to more diverse groups, including those currently under-represented,” Lindstrom said.
Isaac Theatre Royal Christchurch
Earlier this year, the theatre also received funding for digital displays and software to improve accessibility and communication for all theatregoers. Both grants, Lindstrom said, have been transformative in helping the theatre create an inclusive and accessible space for the community.
RDU 98.5FM, Christchurch’s independent student radio station, received funding for technical equipment.
With a 45-year history, the station plays a vital role in Christchurch’s music scene by championing emerging talent.
Coastguard Canterbury was granted $122,500 for a new tractor to launch and retrieve rescue vessels.
Volunteer Sam Hawkins said their existing tractor, which had been in use for over 15 years, was showing signs of wear due to exposure to salt water.
“While it’s never failed us, having a new tractor brings real peace of mind in high-stress moments. It’s critical that our equipment is reliable during emergencies,” Hawkins said. The Canterbury Coastguard, staffed entirely by volunteers, responds to emergencies 24/7 and collectively logs over 1,000 hours each month in training, preparation, and incidents. Pub Charity Managing Director Martin Cheer emphasised the importance of supporting lifesaving organisations.
“These are groups that literally save lives. With New Zealand’s troubling drowning statistics, ensuring they have the right equipment and facilities is essential,” Cheer said. He highlighted Pub Charity’s nationwide support for lifesaving organisations, which saw over $400,000 distributed in the previous funding year. In Christchurch, 32 organisations received grants totaling nearly $500,000 in Pub Charity’s October funding round.
Over the 2023/24 financial year, $6.35 million was granted to 577 organisations across Christchurch.
