From Arts to Action: Wānaka Case Study
From Arts to Action: A Wānaka Case Study on Creativity in our Communities
As part of our recent creative and cultural hui, Te Muka Toi, Te Muka Tākata, we explored how creativity can help shape the future of our district — not just through the arts, but across industries, communities, and local development.
The Wānaka Business Chamber’s new case study, From Arts to Action: The Future is Creative, builds on conversations from the hui and takes a closer look at creativity as a driving force in the district.Developed in collaboration with Three Lakes Cultural Trust, this piece spotlights the powerful role creativity plays in Wānaka’s identity and economy — and why it’s time to centre creative thinking in how we plan, collaborate, and grow.
From grassroots stories to big-picture opportunities, the case study outlines how creativity is already showing up in unexpected places — and how we can build on this momentum to support local talent, futureproof our economy, and bring our community together in meaningful ways.
This article forms part of our ongoing work to raise awareness of the creative sector’s potential and to strengthen cross-sector partnerships throughout the Queenstown Lakes District.
Te Muka Toi Te Muka Toi Hui was created in partnership with Three Lakes Cultural Trust and Queenstown Lakes District Council.
With thanks to our supporters: Central Lakes Trust, Mountain Club, Country Lane School House Studios, TomTom Productions and the many creatives across the district to make this hui possible.
Photography by Deanna Gerlach.
