Auckland arts organisations up in arms over proposed council cuts

Auckland arts and culture organisations are fighting Mayor Wayne Brown’s proposed funding cuts for the arts and asking the public to make submissions on the council's budget for 2023/2024.

The budget proposal, which includes a $41m cut in funding for regional services, regional contestable grants and local boards, has raised an alarm in the arts and culture sector.

Co-director of Northart art gallery Jessica Pearless says it is difficult to face a future with less funding.

“It’s going to be hugely significant. I’ve been working in the arts and culture sector almost exclusively in Tāmaki Makaurau for 25-odd years now, and this is probably one of the most significant cuts that have been proposed.”

The budgetary changes would affect a wide range of different council-funded services and events under the umbrella of “regional services”, and Pearless says it is not just arts and culture that people should be worried about.

“Arts and culture are one aspect of what’s sort of on the chopping block here. So, we’re also talking about significant changes to organisations that run environmental initiatives, youth activity, and education as well as events.”

Similarly, Centrestage Theatre co-manager Ross McKellar is concerned about the proposed budget.

“I think with most theatres around the country they’re probably one or two bad shows away from going under. That’s always been the nature of theatre and theatre companies. So, to have some sort of baseline security from the council is important to us,” says McKellar.

“The most important thing that people can do right now is to go online on the Auckland Council website and put in your thoughts about the funding cuts.

“It’s quite a simple survey to fill out, fill that out, and have your say. And hopefully if enough people do, we may be listened to.”

The budget proposal is under public consultation and Aucklanders can submit their responses on the Auckland Council website. by 11pm on March 28.