AUCKLAND CITY COUNCIL

MEDIA RELEASE

5 March 2007

City proposes new street performance and busking policy

The Arts, Culture and Recreation Committee today approved a draft policy to encourage diverse, high quality street performance in Auckland city’s public spaces.

Councillor Penny Sefuiva, chairperson of the Arts, Culture and Recreation Committee, said this new approach will go a long way to increasing the enjoyment factor for some, and mitigating the issues for others.

“Good street performance is a sign of a healthy and animated city, so we have looked carefully at how other international cities encourage and manage this sort of activity. This draft policy is a positive start towards reflecting a unique city, alive with Auckland’s talented and creative people performing in appropriate public spaces.”

“I hope that by clarifying expectations through a specific policy, we can build an environment that attracts and encourages a range of street level activity to take place.”

A street performance guidebook will be developed to help performers, residents, retailers and all CBD users understand the expected code of conduct required to perform in Auckland city. In accepting the code of conduct, performers will be expected to comply with some basic criteria to help balance the creative needs, with everyday activity of the public and city businesses.

It will help direct performers to appropriate locations for particular activities, like special sites identified for pavement art. It will also provide tips for performers wanting to make the most of their performance. It is proposed that performers agree to the code of conduct in order to receive a free, 12-month licence to perform in the city.

The draft Street Performance Policy will be released for public consultation in the coming months with key stakeholders and the wider public.

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