Do I need a permit to collect money on the street in Hamilton?
Yes. Hamilton City Council requires a public places permit for charitable collections and charity stalls on public footpaths.
Hamilton and the wider Waikato have close-knit school, church, marae and sports communities. An online page lets whānau and friends outside the region support your cause too.
Written and reviewed by the Good Cause team at Webfit Solutions Limited · Updated 29 September 2026 · About Good Cause
An online fundraising page reaches supporters across the Waikato and beyond without needing a venue or permit. It gives local events and posters somewhere to point people, and keeps a clear public record of what has been raised.
Share the page through school newsletters, church and marae networks, sports clubs and Waikato community groups.
Hamilton City Council requires a public places permit for charitable collections and not-for-profit charity stalls on public footpaths and road reserves. The council considers pedestrian safety, the location and the effect on neighbouring properties. Apply through the council e-services portal or email permits@hcc.govt.nz.
Private venues such as supermarkets, malls and markets need permission from the owner or manager, not the council.
Quiz nights, sausage sizzles, fun runs and club days work well. Put a QR code linking to your online page on posters and tables so people without cash can give. Small raffles are allowed without a licence within the Department of Internal Affairs limits; see our guide to fundraising rules in New Zealand.
Free to start. Reviewed by a person. The cause receives 97.5% of every donation.
Yes. Hamilton City Council requires a public places permit for charitable collections and charity stalls on public footpaths.
Yes. Online fundraising pages do not need a council permit. Every Good Cause fundraiser is reviewed before donations are enabled.
This guide is general information, not legal, tax or financial advice.