Arts funding in New Zealand: a review of governmental structures and a case for reform

This research investigates the legislated avenues of arts funding in New Zealand. The four areas covered include: the Queen Elizabeth II Arts Council, regional arts councils, community arts councils, and local authorities. A description of the current arts funding structure and the related theory of arts funding from around the world are provided, where applicable to the New Zealand arts environment. A diverse selection of policy makers, local authority representatives, and arts practitioners in the Wellington region were selected and interviewed for their opinions on the role of the legislated funding bodies. The main themes - the role of each level of arts administration, the accessibility to information and expertise, the credibility, and the applicability of current funding policies - were identified and incorporated into commentary on each level of arts funding, and the impact they have. These ideas were then extrapolated to provide recommended changes to each of the legislated arts funding agencies. The role of the regional arts councils in New Zealand has changed since their inception. The funding role that they fulfil could be taken up by the Queen Elizabeth II Arts Council, or local authorities, to "free up" more funds for the arts, while still providing the support mechanisms for the community arts councils. The Council needs to remain dynamic to cater for the arts, and this will only be achieved with wholesale changes in the current legislation to give the Council the flexibility needed. Local authorities are the "unknown" factor in the arts in New Zealand, but are a potentially valuable asset in the support of the arts in the community, as are the community arts councils. Changes to the current legislation are recommended to be undertaken with full consultation of interested parties to achieve parity and equity of arts administration in New Zealand. The study includes a bibliography and list of interviewees.