Summerhill Charitable Trust

What a Community Group Fund is

A Community Group Fund through Acorn Foundation gives a local organisation the chance to build lasting, secure support, beyond one-off appeals or annual events. Rather than relying purely on short-term fundraising or grants, this fund is invested and the annual returns become a dependable income stream.

That means the organisation can plan ahead, invest in infrastructure, staff, programmes or maintenance, and respond confidently to community needs. Your contribution helps ensure the organisation isn’t just working today, it’s working sustainably for the future too.

About Summerhill Charitable Trust

The Summerhill Charitable Trust manages and preserves 126 hectares of working farm, forest and open green space in the Pāpāmoa Hills (Reid Road, Pāpāmoa Hills). The land was gifted for public enjoyment and community use, with the objective of creating opportunities for recreation and education within a working farm and forestry environment. 

Since opening in 2004, Summerhill has welcomed thousands of visitors who walk, hike, mountain-bike or explore the open space, offering breathtaking views over the Bay of Plenty, a mix of exotic and native trees, and unique timber-structures built by Architecture students. 

Their vision: to preserve this land for future generations, while providing accessible outdoor recreation, educational visits, school and kindergarten experiences, and community gathering spaces. By donating to Summerhill’s Community Group Fund, you help ensure this special place remains a green, accessible, living space for nature, people and education, not just now, but for many years to come.