Local community input is helping shape the Arts, Culture and Heritage Strategy for the district, which is being developed in partnership by Three Lakes Cultural Trust (TLCT) and Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC).

Six district-wide hui were held late May and early June and those unable to attend the in-person sessions now have an opportunity to be part of the conversation via an online survey.

QLDC community partnerships manager Marie Day said it was important to hear from all the different voices that make up the Queenstown Lakes community.

“We had a fantastic turn-out to our recent hui workshops… and really appreciated the valuable insights and ideas that were shared,” she said. 

“We’d love to build on this feedback and hear from more of our residents about their connection to arts, culture and heritage and what’s important to them.

“This could range from how these influence people’s sense of identity, creativity and belonging through to taking part in events and activities such as local theatre, music festivals and art exhibitions.”

TLCT chair Gizelle Regan said arts, culture, heritage, and creativity are essential for vibrant communities where people want to live, work and raise their families. 

“A well-informed strategy will help set a shared vision and commitment to arts, culture and heritage,” she said. 

“It will guide what should be preserved, maintained, celebrated, and will outline a roadmap of what we need to do to achieve this.”

Residents can take part in the online survey, which will be open until July 30, here.

Once early insights are gathered and collated from the community, a draft strategy will be shared for public feedback in spring.

Read more: Discussions inform future of arts culture and heritage in the district

PHOTO: Lake Wānaka Tourism