BayTrust, formerly known as the Trust Bank Bay of Plenty Community Trust, was established in 1988 to benefit the communities of the Bay of Plenty region. Although the Trust Bank shares were sold to Westpac Bank in 1996, the sale proceeds of around $90 million were invested by the Trust. In 1998, the name was changed to BayTrust for easier remembrance.

BayTrust serves an extensive area, from Katikati to Turangi, including Rotorua, Taupo, Tauranga, and Whakatane. The organization manages a fund of approximately $250 million, carefully investing in local and global assets. The returns from these investments contribute to the Trust's income, which is distributed through grants to community groups in the Bay of Plenty.

The Trustees aim to reinvest sufficient income each year to cover inflation and population growth, as well as reserve funds for lean years. With a commitment to the Treaty of Waitangi, BayTrust works collaboratively with Māori communities, fostering partnerships, protection, and participation. They support initiatives that advance Te Reo Māori, Tikanga, and empower Māori, Iwi, hapu, and whanau to make applications to BayTrust