SUPPORTING ARTS, ARTISTS AND CREATIVE ENTERPRISE TO FOSTER CREATIVITY, WELLBEING AND OPPORTUNITY FOR OUR REGION.
Advocating for creative spaces and arts infrastructure across the Kaipara through partnerships supporting accessible, community-focused hubs for creativity and connection.
Planning and fundraising for a vibrant district-wide arts programme connecting Kaipara communities through creative events, performances, and collaborations to launch in 2027.
Creating strategic arts education, professional development, and creative mentoring opportunities across Kaipara for children, rangatahi, adults, and artists.
We respond to community needs, our current planning is informed by an independent 2026 feasibility study. We welcome ongoing input and invite you to connect with us.
We are committed to supporting the growth of arts and artists in the Kaipara, we operate as an umbrella funding support organisation to independent artists, if you need support in this area, please reach out to us.
Our purpose is to provide for, foster and support the arts, artists, community and creative enterprise for the well-being and benefit of arts practitioners, community and the public.
Since our establishment, the trust has built strong foundations - securing funding for a feasibility study in 2024, completing the study and securing programme development funding in 2026. We are actively responding to community need for increased coordination of arts opportunities and establishment of creative spaces across the Kaipara.
Our mission is to make the arts accessible to all, celebrate cultural diversity, and support the creative economy through exhibitions, performances, educational programs, and community initiatives.
We envision a thriving, connected community that bridges locality, nurtures creativity, and supports sustainable enterprise. A place where artistic expression, cultural identity, and community life intersect—strengthening social connection, encouraging participation, and celebrating the unique character of Kaipara.
We champion bold, innovative artistic expression across all mediums and disciplines.
We believe art thrives when it brings people together, fostering dialogue and connection.
We honor Te Ao Māori and celebrate the diverse cultural heritage of Aotearoa.
We strive to make the arts welcoming and available to everyone in our community.
The trust was formed in a bid to establish a physical centre for the arts in the Kaipara, alongside a programme of arts and community activity designed to reach across the Region.
Our trust board consists of five individuals, all residents of the Kaipara: Zoe Williams-Erickson (arts management and funding), Tony Bozzard (local business owner), Lady Alexandra Smith (arts and community), Laura Worrall (artist and founder of MGTO gallery), and Leigh Bowness-Barker (local business owner and marketing/PR).
Have questions about our programming and planned delivery, or how to get involved?
Get in touch with us.
We invite your support, ideas, and partnership to bring this hub to life for the Kaipara.
We'd love to hear from you.
