Gretchen La Roche

Chief Executive Tumu Whakarae, Creative New Zealand

Gretchen is an experienced arts leader and a trained musician. Her return to Creative New Zealand as Tumu Whakarae is her third role with the agency, after starting as a Programme Adviser (then Senior Programme Adviser) in 2006 and returning as Senior Manager Arts Development Services in 2022. She was also an inaugural member of the advisory group Te Rōpū Mana Toi. 

Most recently, Gretchen was Executive Director of The Court Theatre as the rebuilt theatre opened in Ōtautahi.  She has previously served as CE of Chamber Music New Zealand, and as CEO of the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra after joining the orchestra as Artistic Director.

Gretchen is from Te Tairawhiti. After several roles based in Te Wai Pounamu, she is now based in Tāmaki Makaurau.