MEDIA RELEASE
24 June 2005

Funding for a fun city

Auckland City Council’s combined committees agreed yesterday to inject nearly a million dollars into events and cultural activities in the city over the next twelve months.

Funding of $500,000 will be used to retain and grow existing events and attract and initiate new events that are in line with the city’s strategic approach. These events will support Auckland’s unique identity and create a strong sense of place while providing social and economic benefits to the city.

Auckland City will also help event organisers cut through the red-tape. The council intends to amend parts of the district plan and develop Auckland City as an event-friendly and helpful organisation.

Significant funding will be allocated for the following organisations for their contribution to the life and culture of the city:

- $223,000 for a new bi-annual waterfront festival over Auckland’s Anniversary weekend

- $200,000 additional funding for the Auckland Philharmonia, bringing the total funding up to $500,000. This is made up of cash and sponsorship in kind

- $50,000 to fund the Auckland-based Black Grace Dance Company. This is subject to negotiation of a funding agreement that will specify service levels, performance measures and reporting requirements.

“We cannot ignore the important social and economic contribution that events and cultural activities make to the life and soul of the city,” says Councillor Vern Walsh.

“This council can be proud of our contribution to the Auckland Philharmonia. Sadly other local authorities around the region have not been as helpful in trying to secure the future of this iconic cultural institution,” he says.

“Another uniquely Auckland company, Black Grace, is highly acclaimed both at home and internationally and, as our only full time professional dance company, we need to nurture and support their growth. Giving them some certainty around their funding will ensure they can prosper,” says Mr Walsh.

“This funding will ensure Auckland is events-friendly by creating a thriving, exciting city with a full events calendar that makes the most of our cultural assets.”

Ends

© Scoop Media