We have exciting news! 

Our long-planned upgrade of the Mahara Gallery will begin later this year after Kāpiti Coast District Council voted to confirm its $2.8 million commitment to the project’s $6.5 million estimated cost, and to underwrite the project. Project funding includes a $250,000 grant from the Waikanae Community Board, and we welcome Margaret Stevenson-Wright to represent them on the Mahara Gallery Trust Board.

The Council’s decision follows the Mahara Gallery Trust’s recent success in securing significant government funding of $1.73 million from the Regional Culture and Heritage Fund towards the project. Mahara Gallery Trust Board Chairman Gordon Shroff says “This project will ensure that we can retain the Field Collection of artworks in Kāpiti, its lasting home. We still have $750,000 to raise to meet the fundraising target we agreed with Council, and recently submitted an application to the Lottery Significant Projects Fund to reduce that shortfall, and will continue to search for other potential funding sources to help bridge the gap.  The Trust will launch a community fund-raising programme soon to seek the support of Kāpiti people and businesses.” 

Mr Shroff is hopeful that key members of the Kāpiti community will recognise the power that their own contributions will have. “Reducing the gap further will help to strengthen our funding applications. We know that the economic impact of COVID-19 has been tough on members of our community.  Having this project proceed now will help a lot of businesses and employ local people”, says Mr Shroff. “We will have a modern, fit-for-purpose district gallery which serves toi Māori, local and national artists, wider arts communities, and houses an art collection of national significance by the end of next year.”

The redevelopment project will be managed by Council and more information about next steps and the construction timeline will be available on its website soon. Board members will be available to engage with you and provide more information on this wonderful project at the Waikanae Easter Market in Mahara Place this Saturday (3 April) morning. The gallery information table will include selected publications and other items for sale.

We look forward to seeing you soon, stay safe and well,

Ngā mihi mahana
Janet, Kathryne & Tracey