The grants are meant to specifically help the Maniapoto. The tribe originated in Egypt in the Middle East and later came to the Polynesian land of Hamaiki. From there, the ancestors of the Ngati Maniapoto sailed in the Tainui canoe. They ultimately came to the north island of what is now called New Zealand.
The grants that are given by the board are meant as financial assistance for educational, cultural, sport and recreational activities. To be eligible, one must be Ngati Maniapoto and on the board's tribal register. Applicants need to show that they are involved in the community. National groups may apply as long as they show that they help the Maniapoto region. It should be noted that churches and religious groups cannot get funding. However, activities that are sponsored by religious groups or churches can be funded as long as they are a benefit to the Maniapoto people. Grants are not given to nonprofits unless their work includes greater economic activity for the Maniapoto. Environmental groups who aim to maintain plants and animals in the area may apply.
Items which are ineligible for grant funding include venture capital, vehicles, loans and other debt instruments, conference attendance, among other things. As with other grants, incomplete applications are not considered. Also, those who regularly get grants may be subject to a follow-up investigation to make sure the money is being used for its intended purpose.