We know from our research that New Zealanders value the arts. Eight out of 10 adults have attended or participated in at least one arts event in the past 12 months. Over half of New Zealanders agree that the arts help improve New Zealand society, that they contribute positively to the economy and help define who we are as New Zealanders.

Our new path forward

This Statement of Intent reflects a significant shift in focus within government and in our own thinking about what we’re trying to achieve. At the centre, the Treasury is refocusing its efforts on raising the living standards of all New Zealanders by taking account of a broad set of wellbeing indicators.

At the same time, we’ve adopted a new model for describing how we create long-term value for New Zealanders through our support for the arts. We have, for the first time, articulated the value we believe the arts deliver for individuals, whānau, communities and society.

We have considered what we need to do to increase that value and ensure all New Zealanders – regardless of where they live and who they are – share in those benefits.

We’ve established four new goals that will enable us, by working with the sector and our partners, to achieve our outcomes:

▪ Stronger arts

▪ Greater public engagement with the arts

▪ Stronger arts sector (new).

Our aim, over time, is to increase the contribution of the arts to improving the lives of all New Zealanders.

We’re presenting a 10-year strategy, recognising that the sort of change we’re seeking takes time. Over recent years, we’ve developed several strategies including our Investment Strategy Te Ara Whakamua 2018–2023 and strategies to advance ngā toi Māori and Pacific arts, and we want to take the necessary time to implement these effectively. We will, however, review this Statement of Intent at least every three years for its continuing relevance.

We’ve had the chance to talk with the arts sector, other partners and the public to get their views on our strategic direction. The response we received has given us confidence that we’re heading in the right direction.

Ngā mihi maioha

We acknowledge the role of our artists in sharing their creativity and presenting their work to audiences across New Zealand and internationally. We also acknowledge the many staff and volunteers who support those artists and arts organisations.

We thank our funders – the Crown, through the Ministry for Culture and Heritage, and the New Zealand Lottery Grants Board – for investing in the arts and recognising their potential to contribute to the wellbeing of New Zealanders.

Our valued partners, including iwi, local government, community trusts and private donors are also fundamental to building a strong and resilient arts sector.

Finally, we acknowledge New Zealanders for supporting and participating in the arts in communities across Aotearoa.