The Southern Lakes Arts Festival Trust, responsible for delivering the much-loved Wānaka Festival of Colour and Aspiring Conversations, is reaching out for new supporters to ensure its future.

Trust board member Mark Verbiest said the challenging economic climate has made public support more crucial than ever.

“For 20 years, local support has been the backbone of our festivals,” Mark said. 

“These events bring vibrancy and buzz to Wānaka, offering live performances that add significant economic value and expose our community to diverse, entertaining, and challenging experiences.”

The Festivals deliver a range of vibrant and thought provoking performances.

The Trust’s success in building a thriving arts community has long relied on major funders, local business sponsors, and individual donors, in the form of the festival’s Patron and Benefactor supporter programme. 

As Wānaka continues to grow, the Trust is asking newcomers and long-time residents alike to become financial supporters.

“Donations help us extend our programmes, engage underserved groups, expand community day events, and enhance education for local schools,” the Trust’s artistic director Sophie Kelly said. 

“These contributions ensure an extraordinary festival experience for all and grow connections among diverse audiences.”

The Trust has introduced a new donor platform offering flexible giving options, including monthly donations starting from as little as $31.25 to become a Patron. A generous local donor is offering limited match funding, doubling the impact of donations.

“Supporting Wānaka’s arts festival means access to an incredible range of performances and thought-provoking discussions right here at home,” long time supporter Meg Taylor said.

To bolster fundraising efforts, the Trust has several initiatives planned, including two events in November and an informal gathering in October for those interested in becoming a supporter.

Learn more and donate here.

For more information, contact the Festival at [email protected] or click here.

PHOTOS: Supplied