What we heard at the inspiring 2025 edition of All in for Arts: He waka toi e eke noa nei tātou.
In March 2025, Creative New Zealand teamed up once again with The Arts Foundation Te Tumu Toi to visit six cities throughout Aotearoa and celebrate how creativity shapes and uplifts our lives.
These inspiring gatherings brought together leaders, decision makers, artists and advocates to amplify the arts and uncover how creativity can propel us forward.
37 speakers shared their stories about the transformative power of creativity and their ideas for how the arts, culture, creativity and ngā toi Māori can thrive, so that everyone can flourish.
Here’s what we heard:
Creativity is at the heart of our national identity
Across the motu, speakers spoke of creativity as a force woven into our whakapapa, cultural heritage, and everyday lives.
Māori, Pasifika and rangatahi creatives emphasised the importance of having spaces where they can freely express their identities.
Creativity is embedded in culture. Supporting artists means supporting the expression of who we are as a nation.
“Creativity transforms ordinary spaces into places that reflect our unique identity.”
– Desley Simpson, Deputy Mayor of Auckland
Art and creativity build stronger communities
Art is a bridge between people; it strengthens communities by fostering empathy, joy, and understanding. From storytelling to public art, we heard how creativity can break down barriers, connect people across generations, and create a sense of belonging.
A thriving arts scene means a stronger, more connected society. Investing in the arts is investing in community wellbeing.
“If art is an integral part of a community, then a community is incomplete without the arts.”
– Dame Robin White DNZM, artist and 2022 Arts Foundation Te Tumu Toi Icon Whakamana Hiranga
Creativity requires courage and support
Being creative takes risk, resilience and self-belief. Artists push boundaries and step into the unknown to imagine new ways forward. But, imagination alone isn’t enough – creativity needs backing.
Speakers urged us to support the arts whether through investment, advocacy, or simply showing up for our artists. Creativity thrives when it’s valued.
“Hope is not enough. We can’t run on hope. We need help too.”
– Kaiata Kaitao, writer, student and Napier Youth Councillor
Creativity is for everyone
Creativity isn’t just for those with a career in the arts and creative sectors – it’s part of being human and belongs to everyone. It’s how we express ourselves, connect and make sense of the world.
All people, no matter their background or resources, should have equal opportunities to explore and embrace creativity.
“Only humans make art – and it’s for humans. It’s what separates us from other creatures.”
– Peter Gordon ONZM, chef and writer
Art and creativity are catalysts for change
Art helps us imagine a better future. In challenging times, creativity offers a way forward. Whether through storytelling, activism, or reimagining public spaces, art has the power to shape our future.
When times are tough, investing in creativity offers hope for building empathy and social cohesion.
“We must make work that not only reflects the world we live in, but the world we would like to see.”
– Victor Rodger ONZM, playwright, producer and 2024 Arts Foundation Te Tumu Toi Laureate
To hear more inspiring stories from each one of our speakers, you can listen to the All in for Arts [podcast] on Spotify. Then go ahead and share the link and the love so that more of us understand the power and potential of the arts!