EVANZ backs campaign to stop cuts to Auckland Council's regional arts and events budget

With Auckland Council proposing major cuts to its regional arts and events funding in its draft budget for 2023/24, the Entertainment Venues Association of New Zealand (EVANZ) has thrown its support behind the ‘Stop the Cuts Campaign’ that aims to reverse the plan.

Facing a significant budget deficit, the Council is proposing to cut $36.5 million from a wide range of events and community, local and arts funding.

Fearing this will have long-term negative impacts on Auckland’s arts and creative sector, EVANZ has joined more than 30 arts and culture groups who are calling on Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown and councillors to reverse the proposed cuts.

In a communication to members, EVANZ cites five steps they can take to reverse the Council’s decision including make a submission to the Council, commenting on social media and writing to local MPs.

Submissions on the Council’s draft budget are open to the public until 28th March.

Click here to visit the Stop the Cuts Campaign website.

Image: Auckland's Aotea Centre. Credit: Sally-Anne Coates.