AUCKLAND CITY COUNCIL

MEDIA RELEASE

7 November 2006

City ensures orchestra will continue to play

Auckland City Council has committed an additional $250,000 to ensure the continuation of the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra until ongoing regional funding is secured.

‘Thanks to Auckland City Council, Aucklanders from all over the region can continue to enjoy the experience of a world class orchestra at a town hall near you,” says Councillor Penny Sefuiva, Chair of the Arts, Culture and Recreation Committee.

“It is extremely disappointing that other regional bodies have not dug sufficiently deep to help. Auckland City’s contribution will keep the organisation going this year until a permanent funding solution can be found,” she says.

In 2005/06, Auckland City contributed $500,000 to the orchestra as it did again in 2006/07. The additional grant will bring the total funding package from Auckland ratepayers to $750,000 this financial year. Total funding from other councils in the region was $90,000, yet 50% of attendees are from other local authority areas.

For this reason, Auckland City is supporting a regional funding Bill, being promoted by the organisations who stand to benefit from the new legislation. This would see their funding secured on an ongoing basis. It is estimated it may take two years for this type of funding to be approved.

“We are working hard with all parties to find a permanent funding solution that is equitable for our ratepayers. That way our children and grandchildren will be able to continue enjoying this wonderful cultural asset.”

Ends

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