45South Hosts Rt Hon Christopher Luxon in Queenstown

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has praised 45 South for its leadership in community-led philanthropy during a recent gathering of regional leaders, donors, and community partners in Queenstown. The Prime Minister met with community leaders, philanthropists, and local organisations at a gathering hosted by the 45South Community Foundation in Queenstown. The discussion focused on developing regional solutions, and exploring how government, business, and community can work together to build long-term community assets for the Southern Lakes. He outlined the importance of the three pillars of government, business, and community working together as equals, not in parent–child roles. The message was clear: local people understand their communities best, and regions like ours should be empowered to shape their own future. The gathering was coordinated with support from Joseph Mooney MP, who continues to champion locally led approaches across the South. Jennifer Belmont, CEO of 45South Community Foundation, said the challenge from the PM to develop locally led solutions, represents an important moment for the region. “Our community is a hotbed of innovative thinking, giving, and doing,” Belmont said. “We are proving that when locals lead in partnership with government and business, we can build enduring community assets, and work towards a thriving community.” “The scale of intergenerational wealth transfer underway across New Zealand, and the opening of the Active Investor Plus visa criteria represents a once in a lifetime opportunity to harness significant funds to invest in our community.” To develop locally led solutions through philanthropy, 45South is keen to bring together community leaders, subject specialists, and local organisations to identify shared community priorities. “Our community understands the privilege of living here — and the responsibility to protect and enhance it for future generations,” she said. “We’re proud to support donors, partners, and local leaders in creating the legacy they want to leave for this region.”