Working with Council in Matamata-Piako
Creative Waikato’s work is focused on capability building in the arts, culture and creative ecosystem.
An important part of our work is working with councils, which Creative Waikato has done since it was established. There are 10 local authorities located in the Waikato district – Thames-Coromandel, Hauraki, Matamata, Waikato, South Waikato, Waipā, Ōtorohanga, Waitomo, Ruapehu and Hamilton City.
Although sometimes the perception of local councils is that they set rates, provide rubbish services and develop and maintain facilities, they can be, and are, huge enablers of arts, culture and creativity. Think of your local theatre, library, even playgrounds and roundabouts that have art in them.
A key part of our advocacy work is working with councils. As well as making submissions to long-term plans and matters regarding livability affecting communities in our districts. We work directly with council staff, providing advice and resources, that support them in the good mahi they are already doing.
Our approach in working with councils has been one of partnership. An understanding that together, we can help create the conditions to enable vibrant spaces so that communities can connect and play, provide opportunities for artists to tell local stories and for communities to enjoy the many arts offerings in their towns and districts. We utilise the Waikato Arts Navigator (our regional strategy) to help guide this work.
Creative Waikato has had a long-standing relationship with Matamata-Piako District Council. Over this time we have formed strong relationships with staff and have held workshops with councillors. We have built a relationship of mutual respect, united in our understanding that community is at the heart of what we do.
Council staff already have established relationships with their arts community and provide spaces and opportunities to enable them to come together. We have found that they are deeply passionate about supporting their communities and work hard to make things happen.
An initiative we are currently working on with Matamata-Piako District Council is an ‘ArtReach’ taster workshop for their creative communities.
ArtReach is a community-focused creative development tool and resource. These workshops were developed together with communities to enhance the good work they do. It includes a suite of 11 workshops that cover a range of essential topics such as ‘Governance and Board leadership’, ‘Strategic Planning’, ‘Evaluation, Impact and Insights’ and ‘Funding’. The aim of these resources is to build capability in our creative communities and enhance the work they do.
We value the relationship with Matamata-Piako District Council and look forward to working with them on other joint initiatives for the benefit of communities. We know there are creatives in all communities around the Waikato region and opportunities to encourage more connection through local creativity.
If you are a council, organisation or group and would like to know more about our ArtReach resources and how these may assist your organisation, please contact – hello@creativewaikato.co.nz