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Whether you’re a practicing artist, community group, tamariki looking for inspiration, or a visitor wanting to explore our creative scene…

Haere mai, you’re in the right place.

Mo Tatou About Us

Creative Taupō is a community-led initiative supporting the vibrant, diverse, and growing arts sector in the Taupō District.

We exist to empower artists, connect communities, and celebrate creative expression across the rohe from Taupō to Tūrangi and Mangakino.

We believe that Toi, the arts, are a powerful force for wellbeing, identity, and whanaungatanga.

To Tatou Tauāki Matakite Our Vision

To create a vibrant, inclusive, and dynamic arts and cultural ecosystem in the Taupō District where local artists, arts organisations, and the wider community engage, share, and benefit from creative expression and opportunities.

To Tatou Mihana Our Mission

To elevate the arts in our district by connecting people, nurturing talent, advocating for creatives, and increasing visibility and access through digital tools, professional development, and community partnerships.

O Tatou Uara Our Values

These are the beliefs that shape everything we do, from who we fund to how we show up in the community.

Manaakitanga

We honour and uplift all creatives, embracing diversity and fostering respectful relationships.

Kotahitanga

We bring people together to collaborate, share resources, and build a strong, connected arts community.

Tūrangawaewae

We are grounded in our place, proud of our unique cultural landscape, and committed to telling our stories through art.

Pākiki

We encourage curiosity, innovation, and lifelong learning across all forms of creative expression.

Sustainability

Building long-term support for arts through strategic funding, facilities, and impact evaluation.

He kaitoi koe, he auaha ranei? Are you an artist or creative?

Join Creative Taupō

Tutaki ki te Kairuruku Toi Meet the Arts Coordinator

Lauren – your go-to person at Creative Taupō!

Lauren Fletcher (Ngāti Tūwharetoa) leads our mahi as the Arts Coordinator for Creative Taupō. With a strong background in iwi engagement, project leadership, and kaupapa Māori arts and environmental initiatives.

Lauren is passionate about building platforms that amplify creative voices especially in our rural and underrepresented communities.

She is the connector behind our events, website, workshops, and community engagement activities, ensuring our strategy lives and breathes at every level.

Looking to kōrero, connect, or collaborate?

Contact Lauren