Queenstown Airport has launched an annual fund to provide financial support to local charities and community organisations.

Administered by the Wakatipu Community Foundation, the annual Queenstown Airport Community Fund will distribute $50,000 in grants, ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, to eligible not-for-profits operating in the Queenstown Lakes and Central Otago districts.

A statement from Queenstown Airport said it aims to create a meaningful and lasting impact by empowering grassroots organisations that contribute to the wellbeing of the region’s people and environment.

"As a key gateway to our region, we recognise our responsibility to give back and support the communities that support us," Queenstown Airport partnerships and marketing manager Vanessa Hartnell said.

"The Queenstown Airport Community Fund is a way for us to invest in local organisations that are making a real difference, ensuring they have the resources they need to thrive."

The fund will add to the $150,000 the airport already contributes through its sponsorships and partnerships programme each year.

"We are delighted to partner with Queenstown Airport to facilitate this new community initiative," Wakatipu Community Foundation CEO Jennifer Belmont said.

“Local charities and not-for-profits play such a key role in our communities, and this fund will provide some extra support to help them continue their work.”

Applications for the Queenstown Airport Community Fund will open on March 3, with organisations located in the Queenstown Lakes and Central Otago districts encouraged to apply.

Find more details, including eligibility criteria and application guidelines, here. Applications close at 5pm on April 7.

PHOTO: Supplied