04 Mar 2026
Across March and April, local councils up and down the motu will open their draft annual plans for public feedback. This is a key opportunity to let mayors and councillors know why investing in arts and creativity matters for your community.
Last year’s local government elections have brought new faces to many council tables and with them, new relationships to build. Now is great time to reconnect with local leaders and highlight the positive impact that investment in artists, ringatoi and arts organisations is already having in their communities.
Making a submission matters. Local government are big funders of arts, culture, creativity and ngā toi Māori.
Local councils are facing lots of different challenges, so positively framing art and culture as part of the solution will help get your message across.
Keep an eye on your local council website for key dates. A submission doesn’t need to be lengthy. It can simply acknowledge the good things already happening in your community and the potential for even more with increased support for artists and creatives. Every dollar invested counts and empowers our communities!
If you have any questions, please drop us a line: advocacy@creativenz.govt.nz
Here are some resources to help you have your say.