45South Welcomes AIP Visa News as Potential Windfall for Whakatipu

45South Community Foundation is welcoming the Government’s announcement that charitable giving will now be recognised within New Zealand’s Active Investor Plus Visa Growth category, opening the door to greater community investment and long-term local impact. From 1 June 2026, applicants in the AIP Growth category will be able to include philanthropic gifts of up to 20% of their total investment, capped at $1 million. Jennifer Belmont, Chief Executive of 45South Community Foundation, says the announcement is an exciting and forward-thinking step for New Zealand, particularly for regions such as the Whakatipu and the wider Southern Lakes. “This is a hugely positive development for community foundations and local communities. Many people who choose to invest and live in New Zealand also want to contribute to the well-being of the places and people around them. Recognising charitable giving within the investor visa framework sends a strong signal that community impact matters.” The announcement follows recent conversations hosted by 45South with Prime Minister Rt Hon Christopher Luxon and local MP Joseph Mooney, where local leaders, donors and community stakeholders discussed the role of philanthropy in strengthening regions and supporting local solutions. “During our conversation with the Prime Minister, we discussed how new residents and investors can become part of the social fabric of a place, not only through financial investment, but through meaningful local giving,” Jennifer says. “This change to the AIP Visa settings creates exactly that kind of practical pathway.” Jennifer says 45South is well placed to support investor migrants who want to give strategically and locally. Through 45South, donors can establish their own named charitable fund, supporting the causes, charities and community projects that matter most to them. “In effect, it allows people to create their own foundation under our charitable, governance and investment structure, while being deeply connected to local needs and opportunities.” Community foundations provide long-term stewardship, transparent governance, local knowledge, and the ability to support a wide range of charitable purposes, from housing, youth, and education to conservation, arts, health, and wider social infrastructure. “Philanthropy has an important role to play alongside government and business,” Jennifer says. “This is not just about one-off donations. It is about helping people belong, helping them give well, and ensuring that generosity continues to serve this region for generations.” To qualify, philanthropic gifts must be made to a New Zealand registered charity with at least two years of annual financial returns and current Inland Revenue donee status. For more information about philanthropy and giving opportunities through 45South Community Foundation, visit 45South Community Foundation.