A new group of creatives and organisers within the Upper Clutha region has named themselves Creatives of Wanaka (CoW). 

The group was formed following a hui led by Three Lakes Cultural Trust and QLDC in May.

Read more: Ambitious new strategy for the arts in Queenstown Lakes

The group aims to connect local creatives from every culture and arts background within the Wānaka region.

“We are lucky to be part of an incredible region which draws in musicians, artists, innovators, writers, producers and performing artists,” CoW director Andrea Beryl said.

CoW director Andrea Beryl PHOTO: Supplied

“Add in to that the promoters and event managers and it seemed a no-brainer to connect these creatives for the benefit of the community.”

Three meetings in, the group has plans in place to deliver a Fringe-style event (TaokaWānaka) to be held in and around the Lake Wānaka Centre next December 2025.

“Unifying different representatives from every arts background is a tremendous opportunity,” facilitator Lynne Christie said. 

“We’d love to welcome any creatives and arts supporters to connect with CoW.”

Wānaka Pride’s Ollie Harcus said the planned event was “a chance to link all the arts in a phenomenal place and show the community and the world the talent that is right in their front yard”.

The next Creatives of Wānaka meeting will be held at the Wānaka Community Hub Meeting Room on August 7, at 6pm. Anyone wanting to communicate with the new group can do so via email ([email protected]).