Te Muka Toi, Te Muka Tākata Annual Report 2024–2025

Honouring the past, celebrating the present, defining the future of creativity, culture and heritage in Queenstown Lakes.

Three Lakes Cultural Trust is proud to share the first Te Muka Toi  Te Muka Tākata Annual Report (2024- 2025).

In just one year, creativity, culture and heritage have shifted from strategy into action - driving connection, community impact and economic value across our district.

Highlights from year one include:

• Capability-building workshops growing skills, confidence and career pathways

• 400+ people signing up for our inaugural hui 

• More than 2,000 creative listings and newsletters shared with 100,000+ subscribers through Te Wāhi Toi

• Festivals and events drawing record crowds across the district

• New creative spaces like School House Studios opening and Tāhuna Glenorchy receiving Dark Sky Sanctuary recognition

• The creative sector contributed $34 million to the district economy, with 5.6% of the workforce in creative industries, the second highest in Aotearoa.

This first annual report is a chance to pause, reflect and celebrate the mahi so many people have contributed to and set a clear baseline for where we go next.