Creative New Zealand has announced a significant organizational restructure that will reduce its workforce by more than one-third. The arts funding agency plans to cut 29 of its 84 positions, including 13 currently vacant roles, resulting in a total staff of 55. The changes follow an extensive consultation process with employees and aim to realign the agency’s operating model to better support its long-term strategic objectives.

The restructure emphasizes shifting funding decision-making toward regional partners, reflecting a broader effort to decentralize resources and empower local arts communities. The organization outlined five key strategic priorities underpinning the new model: increasing investment in the arts from a more diverse range of sources, enhancing sector capability, building public support for the arts, expanding international reach, and fostering community empowerment by bringing decision-making closer to artists and local organizations.

Kent Gardner, chairman of the Arts Council, described the restructure as a deliberate and forward-looking measure. He noted that over the past two years, the council has made changes including appointing a new chief executive and developing a new long-term strategy. Gardner emphasized that the current restructuring is designed to implement this strategy rather than respond to short-term pressures.

Creative New Zealand chief executive Gretchen La Roche highlighted the evolving nature of the arts and funding environment as a key reason for the review. She stressed the importance of the organization being adaptable and structured to effectively deliver its strategic priorities. La Roche acknowledged the challenges that change can bring for staff and underscored the agency’s commitment to supporting employees through the transition while maintaining continuity in its work with artists, organizations, and communities.

This restructuring comes amid expectations from government officials, including Arts, Culture and Heritage Minister Paul Goldsmith, who recently called on Creative New Zealand to secure an additional $4 million in funding to be directed to artists. The agency’s renewed focus on regional partnerships and strategic priorities is seen as part of an effort to maximize the impact and reach of its resources in an evolving arts sector.