Te Muka Toi, Te Muka Tākata Creative and Culture Hui 2025
12 - 15 June l Queenstown & Wānaka
Te Muka Toi, Te Muka Tākata Hui was a powerful celebration of creativity, identity, connection, and vision.
We opened with the voices, leadership and mātauraka of Kāi Tahu - grounding the hui in whakapapa, whenua, and intergenerational knowledge. Their presence and guidance helped set the tone for an event rooted in respect, relationship, and place.
Whether you shared your mahi, joined a kōrero, took part in a workshop, or simply showed up with open curiosity - thank you. You helped make this hui something truly special.
Over four days, we:
Shared stories and ideas
Created new relationships, revived old ones, and imagined bold futures for creativity, culture, and heritage in our district.
The 2025 Te Muka Toi Te Muka Tākata Hui has now concluded. Thank you to all our supporters and everyone that came along and joined the kōrero. If you are interested in seeing the full programme, scroll down.
We are already planning the 2026 hui. Make sure to follow us for more.
Explore the 2025 Schedule of Events

Open Studios and Creative Trails
Explore the creative and cultural life of the Queenstown Lakes District.

Evening Celebration Country Lane - School House Studios
Don't miss out on an evening full of inspiration, fun, and connection! Meet talented local artists, dive into hands-on creative activities and explore the studios.

Creative Matchmaking Info Session
This October/November, we’re transforming all kinds of spaces across the Queenstown Lakes District into sites of creative expression — with a district-wide public art exhibition that goes beyond gallery walls.
Got a creative idea — or a space to share? Come along to a Creative Matchmaking Info Session.

Building Your Narrative & Social Media
Explores how to shape a personal or creative brand that feels true to your practice

Building on Funding Foundations in the Arts: Creative New Zealand
Top tips towards grant writing and career sustainability in the arts with Creative New Zealand.

Funding in Practice: The Practicalities of a Great Ask
You are invited to join us for a hands-on workshop for individuals, groups and organisations who want to feel more confident and equipped when asking for funding

The Business of Creativity
In this session tourism development and experience design specialist Brad Rowe will walk you through the essential principles of visitor experience design and show you how to make every moment count.

Unlock Creative Potential Through Collaboration
Take your practice to the next level! In this session, Nat Tozer will show you how artist-run spaces like Mothermother provide the freedom, resources, and community support you need to thrive.

An Evening with Aro l Te Karanga Live
Join award-winning duo ARO l Charlies and Emily Looker (Te Rarawa, Ngāpuhi, Ngāti Te Ata Waiohua, Ngāti Mutunga) for an evening of original waiata that weave together jazz, folk, and haka-infused pop.
This is a paid, ticketed event brought to you by Te Atamira.

Creative Matchmaking Info Session
This October/November, we’re transforming all kinds of spaces across the Queenstown Lakes District into sites of creative expression — with a district-wide public art exhibition that goes beyond gallery walls.
Got a creative idea — or a space to share? Come along to this Creative Matchmaking Information Session.

Building on Funding Foundations in the Arts: Creative New Zealand
Unlock top tips for grant writing and career sustainability in the arts! Join Creative New Zealand as they share essential insights to help you grow and sustain your artistic career.

Building Your Narrative & Social Media
Social media can skyrocket your impact—but only if you have the right story and strategy. Learn how to create a brand that feels true to your practice and use storytelling to make digital platforms work for you.

Aro Song Writing Workshop
Explore the art of songwriting with award-winning duo Aro in this relaxed and inspiring hands-on workshop.
This is a paid, ticketed event brought to you by Te Atamira.

The Business of Creativity
In this session tourism development and experience design specialist Brad Rowe will walk you through the essential principles of visitor experience design and show you how to make every moment count.

Funding in Practice: The Practicalities of a Great Ask
A hands-on workshop for individuals, groups and organisations who want to feel more confident and equipped when asking for funding.

The Power of Artist-Run Initiatives
Ready to make change? Discover how artist-run spaces are driving creative, connected communities. These grassroots hubs empower bold ideas, experimental work, and provide platforms that challenge the traditional.

Creative Showcase at The Workshop
Head to The Workshop to explore projects that merge creativity, technology, and business impact.
Discover the local innovators and creative entrepreneurs are driving growth and empowering brands across industries.

The Power and Value of the Creative Economy
Explore how regions like Queenstown Lakes can transform creative momentum into long-term economic and cultural value.
THIS EVENT IS SOLD OUT : send email to admin@threelakesculturaltrust.co.nz to join the waitlist.
Tahi,
Rua,
Toru
Create, connect, and leave inspired!
Create
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Connect
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Leave inspired!
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Create 〰️ Connect 〰️ Leave inspired! 〰️

Our supporters
Te Muka Toi, Te Muka Tākata The Creative and Cultural Hui for the Queenstown Lakes District is only made possible because of our supporters.