Tuku Rauemi: regional partnerships

2026-11-03

Creative New Zealand is seeking organisations, collectives, or groups to partner with us to lead arts development in regions across Aotearoa.This is the first stage in a two-step procurement process. We are looking to understand who is interested and capable (or has the potential to be capable) of taking on this role from 1 July 2027, or earlier if ready.Regional partners will, for their region:• lead arts development• administer and distribute regional funding• connect artists, organisations, and communities• build partnerships and grow investment• be advocates for arts and ngā toi• support long-term, sustainable arts ecosystemsThis is a leadership and partnership role, not just programme delivery.Together, regional partners will become a formal network of arts leaders across Aotearoa, each grounded in their place, people and purpose, but connected as a powerful national roopu to influence, advocate, and build momentum for the arts and ngā toi Māori in ways we haven’t seen before.We’re looking for respondents who can demonstrate:• strong knowledge of their region and its arts and ngā toi Māori communities• trusted relationships and credibility across communities• ability to connect people, partners, and resources• governance, financial management, and delivery capability (or a clear path to build this)• commitment to working in partnership with Creative New Zealand• approaches that support equity and inclusion.The long-term impacts we are seeking by adopting a regional partnership approach include:• stronger regional economies through arts activity• sustainable creative careers• regionally informed decision-making• increased access and participation in the arts and ngā toi Māori.Regional partners will look different in each region, but we expect they’ll build on their existing arts leadership role, are already trusted in their communities, and have networks so they can connect people and ideas.

New Zealand

2026-10-02