FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
25 February 2026
Over recent weeks we have outlined our staged funding plan, business continuity arrangements, and diversified fundraising strategy. It is reasonable for people to ask: why are we confident this can succeed?
Our confidence is grounded in preparation. For nine months we have undertaken detailed due diligence across legal, financial, structural, operational, and strategic dimensions. We have modelled alternative scenarios, including establishing a similar facility on another site, and have rigorously tested the assumptions behind each pathway.
The conclusion is clear: securing the existing Old Packhouse Market property is the strongest and most cost-effective foundation for long-term community stewardship.
Our approach is structured.
Stage One focuses solely on acquisition of the land and buildings, essential works, and financial stability. Stage Two, the introduction of complementary initiatives such as a community grocery, small-scale processing, commercial kitchen, and repair workshop, will only proceed once the foundation is secure.
Business continuity has also been carefully considered. Experienced operators are willing to continue running the café and market operations under formal lease arrangements, providing stability and predictable income to support ownership costs.
Our fundraising strategy is diversified across philanthropic engagement, grants, events, and crowdfunding. We are not dependent on a single outcome. Each stream contributes to the whole.
Confidence does not come from optimism alone, it is supported by preparation, structure, and disciplined execution.
How You Can Help
This is a community-led effort, and there are practical ways to be involved:
- Contribute financially at a level that is meaningful to you
- Volunteer your skills across fundraising, events, grant research, or communications
- Introduce us to potential philanthropic supporters
- Share accurate information within your networks
- Attend and support events
We are also seeking a Volunteer Manager to help coordinate this growing team effort.
This project will succeed not because of talk alone, but because of steady, sustained action.
For more information or to get involved: https://packhousemarketproject.co.nz/volunteer/
Di Maxwell
Far North Resilient Communities Charitable Trust
Leave a Reply