Have your say on Christchurch's new arts strategy

A draft arts strategy inviting exploration of Christchurch’s dynamic arts and cultural landscape is out for public feedback.

The draft arts strategy aims to make Christchurch the best place to live and be creative.

The draft strategy, Toi Ōtautahi – Christchurch Arts, is a first for the arts in New Zealand and outlines the steps Christchurch will take to be seen as the best place in Aotearoa to live and be creative.

“This is a new kind of partnership strategy, co-created and to be co-owned with the arts sector, major funding agencies including Creative New Zealand, Rātā Foundation, ChristchurchNZ and other key supporters,” says Christchurch City Council Principal Arts Advisor Kiri Jarden.

“We want an environment where creative people are attracted to live and produce work by positioning our city as a place where experimentation and artistic risk taking are supported, and in so doing ensure diverse and rich opportunities to encounter, experience and participate in the arts,” Ms Jarden says.

The draft strategy outlines several ways that our city can support the growth and development of our local arts sector and attract national and international artists to Christchurch. This includes setting up an Arts Office and a Joint Leadership Group made up from key arts sector representatives to deliver the strategy for Christchurch.

The aim is to bring wider benefits to Christchurch by activating and bringing life to the city, improving community well-being and identity, attracting visitors and boosting our economy.

Consultation on the draft strategy opens today and runs through until 17 June.

Find out more about the strategy and how to give feedback.