Can a marae trust or church fundraise on Good Cause?
Yes. The applicant must be authorised by the trust or organisation, and funds are paid to its verified bank account.
Fundraising guide
Fundraising for community projects: marae, churches and halls
Community projects often need a mix of grants, events and donations. An online page brings in whānau and supporters who live elsewhere and gives your project a public progress tracker.
Written and reviewed by the Good Cause team at Webfit Solutions Limited · Updated 29 September 2026 · About Good Cause
Break the project into stages
Large projects are easier to support in stages, for example "Stage 1: new roof, $38,000". Each stage gives you a milestone to celebrate and an update to share.
Show community support
Grant funders often want to see that the community has contributed. A fundraising page with many supporters is good evidence.
Who receives the money
Funds should go to the group’s own bank account, such as the marae trust, church or incorporated society. Good Cause verifies the account and the person authorised to act for the group.
Keep people updated
Share photos of progress. Updates are one of the best ways to bring in a second round of donations.
Start your fundraiser
Free to start. Reviewed by a person. The cause receives 97.5% of every donation.
Common questions
Can donors claim a tax credit?
Only if the organisation is an approved donee organisation with Inland Revenue.
Related guides
- Fundraising for schools, sports clubs and community groups
- Can I claim a tax credit on my donation?
- Fundraising ideas that work in New Zealand
This guide is general information, not legal, tax or financial advice.