A message from Wiri Licensing Trust Chair Brian Blake
In a challenging time of high interest rates and rising living costs, the Wiri Licensing Trust remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting our community. As a locally-owned entity, governed by trustees elected by you, we have a unique responsibility and privilege to serve our people. My colleagues and I are grateful for the opportunity to guide the Trust, ensuring our efforts deliver maximum impact where it’s needed most.
Our funding is primarily drawn from two sources: income from our hospitality and property portfolio, and our partnership with the Trillian Trust, which manages gaming machines in our venues. This structure ensures that revenue generated within our community is reinvested directly back into it, with a strong commitment to minimising potential harm from gaming.
This sustainable funding model allows us to support a diverse range of local initiatives. We are proud partners in the success of organisations like the Sir John Walker Field of Dreams, Manurewa AFC, Manurewa Rugby Club, and the Manurewa Marlins. Our support extends to vital community services, including budgeting advisors, mental health providers, and programmes combating homelessness.
The Trust is also dedicated to enhancing local facilities. We have recently supported significant projects, including the repair and maintenance of the Weymouth and Manurewa Rugby clubrooms, Papakura Coastguard, and the development of new indoor cricket nets at Memorial Park, and substantial refurbishments at the Jellicoe Tennis Club, the Shiv Mandir temple, and the Takanini Gurdwara. From major community events like Christmas in the Park to local sports tournaments and thousands of Player of the Day awards, our focus is on building a vibrant and resilient community.
For smaller, time-sensitive needs, our Community Impact Fund offers swift assistance for club and society projects. These contributions, along with all our efforts, are brought to life by our dedicated team, led by our exceptional General Manager, Kim, and supported by Karen, Grant, and over 45 other staff at our support office and the Woodside venue.
The Wiri Licensing Trust is your trust. We invite organisations with a project, a need, or an idea to connect with us through our website. While we cannot fund everything, we are always eager to learn more about the needs of our community and build new relationships.
It is an honour to serve as the Chair of the Wiri Licensing Trust.
