Active board members of community and not-for-profit organisations around Central Otago that were willing to help others are encouraged to sign up for a six-month mentorship.

Organised by huddl - an organisation that helped support community groups and networks across Central Otago and Queenstown Lakes, the programme matched mentees with local mentors to improve their effectiveness, impact and confidence in governance. 

Project lead Fiona Reeve said they have some really great Central Otago mentors on the programme who understood the local environment.

Over the past three cohorts, they’ve had 36 mentees complete the programme, and the programme opened up each year to about 12 new candidates.

The programme would run from June to December 2025 and was designed to develop governance capability, foster connections, and build confidence among non-profit board members.

Participants were matched with experienced local mentors who brought not-for-profit governance knowledge and an understanding of the region’s unique challenges and opportunities.  

The programme was made up of one-on-one mentoring sessions and three cohort networking events, and online check-ins.

“Great mentoring can make a huge and ongoing impact, not only for the mentee but also for their organisation and community.”

“Governance can sometimes be isolating, particularly for those in chair roles,” she said. “That’s why the networking events and cohort connections are such a valuable aspect of this programme.”

Shortlisted applicants will be interviewed, with the final cohort confirmed ahead of an orientation in mid-June. To register head to www.huddl.nz or email [email protected] 

huddl was governed by members of Alexandra Community House, Central Lakes Trust, Central Otago District Council, Cromwell & Districts Community Trust, Queenstown Lakes District Council, Sport Central, Volunteer South and Whakatipu Hub.

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