Momentum Waikato Update - February 2026
Published on 12 February, 2026
Photo: Jasmax.
Creatively funding creativity
By David Christiansen, Executive Officer, Momentum Waikato.
The opening of the new BNZ Theatre, pictured above, was a momentous moment for Momentum Waikato and the region, we are proud to have convened and led such a significant community project.
The essential ethos of Momentum and all other community foundations is in the name – to build and sustain community.
Behind the various ways we enable and grow generosity in the Waikato is our underlying belief in the value of active communities, as the bedrock of sustainable local wellbeing in all its forms.
This is why the theatre project fitted into Momentum’s agenda – because community is created and nurtured when people gather together. Our ‘Share the Stage’ slogan for the Theatre campaign spoke to both performers and audiences, because it is Kapunipuni, a place where we gather as a community.
Honouring the Theatre Campaign Cabinet's generosity of spirit!
Photo: Jasmax.
We extend our deepest and most heartfelt thanks to our Campaign Cabinet for the extraordinary commitment and passion they poured into bringing our new Theatre to life.
What you see and enjoy today stands as a testament to their belief in a bold vision and their unwavering dedication to making it a reality.
These remarkable volunteers gave generously of their time - time taken from already full lives - because they believed in what this Theatre could mean for our community. They opened doors into their own networks, had countless conversations, welcomed guests, and inspired confidence that led to transformative pledges. Their collective efforts helped secure the $80 million required to make this dream possible.
It is important to acknowledge each and every member of this exceptional team:
Nancy Caiger - Jon Tanner - Linda Rademaker - Glenn Miller - John Gallagher - Michael Crawford - Glenn Holmes - Ken Williamson.
Every one of you played a vital role. Every one of you made a difference.
So when you see these individuals - whether on the street, or the numerous events they attend, or in the foyer of the Theatre - please take a moment to say a simple, sincere “thank you.” It will mean more than you know.
With immense gratitude - the Momentum Waikato Community Foundation team.
How can my estate have the greatest positive effect?
By Keith Hobson.
When I started to think about how to distribute my estate, I first thought of my personal circumstances.
I have never been married, and my nieces and nephews are well catered for when it comes to their futures.
Then I thought about what I could do with my estate that would have the greatest positive effect on people now and for the foreseeable future.
I decided to set up a ‘named fund’ with Momentum Waikato, to benefit ten charities, by leaving a bequest to Momentum in my Will.
The annual income from the invested money would then be divided between the charities and the fund, so it would continue to grow, and two of the charities per year would receive a lump sum to assist them.
How did I decide on the charities?
Putting a stake in the future here
When you live on the Coromandel, you can get to know some remarkably inspiring characters with fascinating life stories, who are future oriented and working generously in their communities.
One of them is Geoff Balme, pictured above, who is now a ‘Fund Champion’ for the Mercury Bay Future Fund initiated by Peter Farmer in partnership with the Momentum Waikato Community Foundation.
As a local chartered accountant, Geoff is a strong supporter of Peter and Momentum’s efforts to attract donations and ‘gifts in Wills’ to the endowment funds they’ve set up for the Coromandel. From the outset of this project reported in The Informer over recent months, Geoff’s thoughtful passion and commitment to the future of Whitianga has been to the fore.
Geoff is also an accomplished and enthusiastic luger, and the Informer talked to him soon after his return from attending meetings in Europe as Treasurer of the International Luge Federation (more on that later).
When recently listening to Mike Hosking’s radio show, Geoff heard a guest commenting on local government reform and the proposed doing away of regional councils. As an accountant, Geoff is wired to query how the possible cost savings can be achieved without losing the quality of civic service in a remote location like Mercury Bay, pictured below.
Help your clients leave a legacy that truly matters
As a professional advisor, you guide clients through life’s big decisions. More and more those conversations are turning to legacy - how they want to be remembered, and the difference they want to make.
Momentum Waikato Community Foundation’s ‘Professional Advisor Programme’ equips you to confidently talk with clients about philanthropic giving, bequests, and trust transfers - turning values into lasting impact.
Why it matters
By introducing purpose and philanthropy into your guidance, you deepen relationships, create more meaningful conversations, and help clients support the causes closest to their hearts, now and for generations to come.
We're hiring - Account Manager wanted!
A part-time opportunity has arisen for a hands-on Account Manager to build trusted relationships with professional advisors across the Waikato.
You will liaise with lawyers, accountants, wealth managers, and our Fund Champions to promote their products and services to support the growth of our community foundation.
