One Gift. Nearly 50 Years of Community Impact.
The Newton Fund was established through a generous bequest left by Dorothy Newton in 1979. For almost fifty years, the Lions Club of Timaru Host carefully protected and managed her gift, using it to support charitable causes and community projects throughout South Canterbury.
For decades, Club members acted as custodians of Dorothy's legacy, making grants that benefited local charitable causes while preserving the fund for future generations.
As the fund entered its next chapter, the Lions Club of Timaru Host partnered with the Aoraki Foundation to ensure the legacy Dorothy created in 1979 would remain protected, invested and available to support South Canterbury forever.
Today, stewardship of the fund has passed to the Aoraki Foundation, ensuring Dorothy's generosity will continue to benefit local people and communities for generations to come.
By investing the fund and distributing only a portion of its earnings each year, the Newton Fund has become a permanent source of support for South Canterbury. What began as one woman's desire to give back to her community has become a lasting legacy that will make a difference forever.
"The Newton Fund demonstrates the power of thoughtful stewardship. Dorothy Newton's generosity has been protected and grown for almost half a century, and through the Aoraki Foundation will continue supporting South Canterbury communities for generations to come." - Richard Spackman, Aoraki Foundation
The Story Behind the Fund
In 1979, Timaru resident Dorothy Newton left a gift in her will to the Lions Club of Timaru Host. Having spent much of her life in Timaru, Dorothy believed in community and wanted her generosity to continue helping others beyond her lifetime.
Rather than spending the gift, the Lions Club of Timaru Host chose to protect and grow it. Over many years they carefully stewarded Dorothy's bequest, making grants that benefited local charitable causes while preserving the long-term value of the fund.
In 2026, the Club entrusted the fund to the Aoraki Foundation, ensuring Dorothy's legacy will continue supporting South Canterbury for generations to come.
Continue Dorothy's Legacy
The Newton Fund shows how a single gift can continue helping a community long after it is given.
You can help grow this legacy by making a donation today or by leaving a gift in your will.
Together, we can ensure the Newton Fund continues supporting South Canterbury for generations to come.
All donations are eligible for a 33% tax credit.
If you would prefer to make a bank transfer or leave a bequest in your will, please contact us now.
Stories / Resources
Donor Story
Dorothy Newton
Can I get a grant?
The Newton Fund provides grants that support South Canterbury communities and the people who call them home.
Grants are made at the discretion of the Aoraki Foundation Trustees in accordance with the purpose and intent of the fund.
It is anticipated that grant distributions will commence in 2027.
While there is currently no formal application process for this fund, individuals and organisations seeking support are welcome to contact our team to discuss their project or funding needs.