A four-day creative and cultural hui next month is designed to ‘provide a platform to come together and imagine what’s possible when creativity is at the heart of our communities’, organisers say.

‘Te Muka Toi/Te Muka Tākata’ will take place from June 12-15 in Wānaka and Queenstown.

Queenstown Lakes Regional Arts Organisation, Three Lakes Cultural Trust and Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) have teamed up to make the hui possible.

They have also received support from Creative New Zealand and local creative sector organisations.

A statement from QLDC said the programme will include thought-provoking discussions, hands-on workshops, and networking sessions — all focused on strengthening the creative sector and encouraging real, practical action.

“By fostering collaboration and empowering local creatives, this event contributes to the district's goal of becoming a globally recognised creative and cultural destination by 2034,” QLDC said.

Creatives, cultural leaders, businesses, and community groups are invited, and the hui kicks off in Queenstown with a focus on the creative economy - how industries like film, design, and technology are already shaping our region, and what more can be done to support innovation and resilience. 

That afternoon, a creative showcase in Frankton will spotlight local projects that merge creativity, technology, and business impact.

On the second day the hui moves to Wānaka, where the focus turns to hands-on workshops designed to equip creatives with practical tools for success, with topics ranging from building effective collectives and designing immersive experiences, to mastering social media strategy. 

The afternoon will feature a creative speed-dating session, aimed at connecting creatives with venues, spaces, and community partners eager to support fresh collaborations.

Saturday’s sessions at Te Atamira in Queenstown will focus on empowering creatives, with workshops throughout the day all designed to offer artists tangible tools and fresh inspiration. 

The afternoon then features a creative speed-dating session, followed by an evening at Country Lane School House Studios.

The hui concludes on Sunday with open studios and cultural heritage tours.

Full programme and registration details will be released soon.