Creative New Zealand says it’s cutting staff by about a third as it looks to implement a new operating model.
The arts funding agency has announced it will be reducing overall staff numbers from 84 to 55 roles.
It said 13 of those roles were currently vacant, meaning 16 people could lose their jobs.
Creative NZ is a Crown entity governed by the Arts Council, which “encourages, promotes and support New Zealand arts”.
Its staff are spread across three cities: Wellington, Auckland and Dunedin.
Arts Council chair Kent Gardner said the change in headcount was “not a reaction to short-term pressures” – which include required savings of $1.3 million over four years in Budget 2026.
“Over the past two years, the Arts Council has deliberately reset Creative New Zealand for the future. We appointed a new Chief Executive, worked together to develop a new long-term strategy, and have now aligned the organisation’s structure to deliver it,” Gardner said.
Creative NZ chief executive Gretchen La Roche said the arts and funding environment was dynamic, and continually evolving.
“This review and change has been about ensuring we’re organised and resourced to deliver on our strategic priorities, and effectively support artists, communities and the wider arts sector into the future.
“Our focus is on supporting our people through the transition and ensuring our work with the artists, organisations and communities we serve is maintained, including retaining valuable experience, expertise and institutional knowledge,” La Roche said.
However, Public Service Association national secretary Fleur Fitzsimons labelled the move “cultural vandalism”.
“These are experienced, essential specialists in New Zealand art, literature, dance and visual arts,” she said.
“This is cost-cutting dressed up as a new operating model because the government has failed to properly fund Creative New Zealand.”