May 18, 2020
Boost for Maori arts as PM visits tourism hub
Māori Development Minister Nanaia Mahuta says the continuation of Te Puia New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute is vital both culturally and economically.
The Government has earmarked $7.6 million over two years for the Rotorua institution, which shed most of its tourism staff as the country went into lockdown.
Ms Mahuta says Māori arts and crafts underpin the heart of the tourism sector, and the investment will safeguard the future of toi Māori and ensure future carvers, weavers, waka exponents, and arts and crafts champions have a place to hone their skills.
She says prior to COVID-19 two out of every ten visitors to Rotorua visited Te Puia, so it plays a critical role in the regional economy.
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, along with Ms Mahuta, Tourism Minister Kelvin Davis and Waiariki MP Tāmati Coffey will visit Te Puia today to hear from chief executive Tim Cossar and board members about its recovery plans.
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