Bequest Programme

The Otago Community Trust welcomes bequests and donations to its on-going donations programme.

The Trust

The Otago Community Trust is a philanthropic trust which distributes donations throughout Otago* for charitable, cultural, recreational and other purposes beneficial to the community. Distributions have exceeded $100 million since its establishment.

The Trust's capital originated from the sale of its shares in Trust Bank New Zealand Ltd in the mid-1990's. The $131 million proceeds were invested in a diversified way which provides income for the annual donations programme as well as growing the Fund's capital, thus preserving its real worth. The Trust considers funding applications monthly, based on assessment criteria which takes into account the value of the benefit to the community.

Our Vision

The Otago Community Trust is an organisation whose financial support and leadership makes a positive difference throughout the region.

Our Mission

The Otago Community Trust supports, encourages and enhances Otago communities by responsibly managing and sharing the resources which have been entrusted to us.

Our Objectives

Maximising the total amount of donations which can be financed by the investment of the Fund over the long term
Ensuring the investments of the Fund are well diversified with minimum investment risk for the expected level of return
Providing positive balanced support for the people of Otago
Enhancing, encouraging and promoting the unique qualities and values of Otago

* The provincial district of Otago excluding the Queenstown district and West Otago, which form part of The Community Trust of Southland.

Make a Bequest

The Trust accepts donations and bequests to its Fund from organisations and from individuals. The Trust is a suitable and convenient vehicle for individuals who wish to contribute a legacy for the benefit of the people of Otago, either during their lifetime or following their death. Donations to the Trust are also a practical option for organisations which are winding up and are required to distribute the surplus consistent with their rules.

Recognition

Every consideration will be given to the wishes of the donor and specific terms will be agreed on for managing and distributing any proposed donation, consistent with the Trust's investment and donations policies.

For taxation purposes, the Trust is an approved donee organisation, where individuals, Maori authorities and companies can claim a tax deduction for donations made to the Trust.

Interested persons can communicate with the Chief Executive of the Otago Community Trust to discuss their ideas

Areas Your Gift May Support

Education

Including support of school and tertiary projects.

Health and community welfare

Including care of infants, children, senior citizens, people with disabilities, health and medical services, victims of abuse and violence, and community amenities.

Sport and recreation

Including leisure activities, hobbies and pastimes.

Art and culture

Including performing and visual arts.

Heritage and environment

Including historic preservations, flora and fauna.

Special events

Including celebrations and festivals.

Adjusting Your Will

If you would like to make the most of this opportunity to help, we suggest you use the following words to legally ensure a legacy from your Will:

‘I give to the Otago Community Trust for donation purposes the sum of ($) or (the residue of my estate) and the receipt of an authorised officer of the Trust shall be a complete and sufficient discharge for my trustees and executors.'