Ongoing support for arts in poll

Uproar and backlash from the arts community and organisations like Stop the Cuts has resulted in Wayne Brown restoring almost all Auckland arts funding.

This follows the Auckland Mayor’s budget proposal that threatened to slash the arts and culture budget for next year.

Brown has re-established $3m dollars in regional grants, and $20m in community services in the final budget.

Te Waha Nui surveyed Auckland residents aged 20 to 30 via polls on Instagram and Facebook to gauge the general public’s position on council funded art.

More than 90 per cent of those polled disagreed with Brown’s proposed cuts to arts and culture funding.

In fact, the majority wanted more arts funding from the council.

Auckland University student Jamie Waston believes the government should be financing galleries and institutions that make art available to the public.

“Arts and culture develop connections within communities. With less funding, fewer opportunities will be available, and these connections will disappear.”

Other respondents emphasised the importance of public art for the benefit of tourism, showcasing local talent, building connections, and nurturing mental health.

Still facing significant cuts is Tataki Auckland Unlimited, a council controlled facility in central Auckland.

Tataki Auckland Unlimited delivers shows, events, and exhibitions to Aucklanders, and manages some of Auckland’s cultural and heritage institutions.

Te Waha Nui found that over half of survey participants were most interested in seeing cultural and indigenous artwork.

Along with indigenous artwork, Aucklanders polled were in support of having more cultural activities available for children.

Mother of two Jane French emphasised the benefits of children engaging with art and culture.

“Art is an important part of children's creative development”.

The council is set to review and propose a new budget in December.