Te Atamira is the beating heart of the arts for the Whakatipu Queenstown Lakes District – a platform for creativity, connection and possibility, where people create and participate, artists develop their practice, and local, national and international stories, ideas and experiences are shared.
Our vision is brought to life through five interconnected pillars:
To be a platform for creativity to flourish for everyone, every day.
As both a creative hub and cultural gathering place, Te Atamira plays a vital role in ensuring that outstanding artistic experiences are available locally while creating opportunities for people to make, learn, experience and celebrate creativity together. We believe the arts are fundamental to a thriving, connected and culturally rich community. The stories shared by participants throughout the year reinforce the value of this work. Te Atamira is recognised not only as a place to experience exceptional art and creativity, but also as a welcoming place where people connect, share ideas, build relationships and develop a stronger sense of belonging through arts and culture.
“Te Atamira is a place full of joy, aroha and manaakitanga. There is always something happening. It is busy, and it is purposeful.” — Ruth Heath, Director
Te Atamira means the morning stage – a platform at dawn in te reo Māori. This meaning is reflected in the poutama design you see across this website and in our physical spaces. A poutama is a stepped pattern used in tukutuku panels and woven mats – symbolising genealogies and also the various levels of learning and intellectual achievement.
In winter 2025, three pou were raised outside our building facing Kawarau maunga (the Remarkables). Designed by Māori creative agency Tuatahi Creatives, they speak to new beginnings and to the responsibility of laying strong foundations for what comes next.
Director
General Manager
Front of House
Marketing & Communications Manager (currently on maternity leave)
Front of House / Shop
Arts Facilitator
Technician
Programmes Lead
Bookings & Events Manager
Arts Programme Educator
Marketing & Communications Manager (contract)
Sam Nelson | Co-Chair
Erin Jackson | Co-Chair
Carroll Joynes
Abby McCormick O’Neil
Kevin Bouchier
Craig Ferguson
Melissa White
Emily Chirnside | Kāi Tahu Cultural Advisor
Dave Oakley | Photography
Kuratea Huck | Education Support
Isabel Vaitkus | Education Support
We’re always looking for passionate individuals to join our community as volunteers. If you’d like to contribute your time and skills, we’d love to hear from you. Click on the button below to read more about becoming a volunteer, and express your interest today.
Our annual reports contain more details on our successes and journey over the past years. Click on the links below to view.
