Running a club is deeply rewarding – but it’s also a lot of work. From balancing admin and attracting members to launching new community initiatives, many clubs need a helping hand to thrive.

That’s where Club is the Hub comes in. Launched in 2023 with support from the Rawhiti and Avondale funds, this Bowls Auckland initiative is designed to back clubs in two practical ways:

• Management Grants – for clubs ready to employ a full-time club manager to lead daily operations and growth, and
• Project Grants – for clubs that may not need a manager but want to deliver targeted projects to better serve their members and local communities.

Now celebrating its second year, Club is the Hub has already supported nine clubs through funding and building capability. 

Six clubs: Royal Oak, New Lynn, Pt Chevalier, Howick, Blockhouse Bay, and most recently, Bowls Papatoetoe, have onboarded full-time managers through partnership agreements. These managers not only bring valuable structure to their clubs but also benefit from a professional development programme that enhances their leadership and management skills.

Additionally, three clubs have successfully launched projects through the Project Grant stream. Examples include:

• Oratia: funding to support school engagement and an inclusive “all abilities” programme.
• Ōtāhuhu Railway: launched a twilight league alongside a school outreach initiative.

Bowls Auckland fully supports clubs to be the heart of their community and acknowledges the continued contributions from the Rawhiti and Avondale funds, which continue to keep clubs strong, connected, and future-focused.

Interested in applying for a manager or project grant? Contact Leah Chan at [email protected].