Thursday 1 February 2018

Mayor Proposes $20 Million Boost for Auckland Art Gallery

Auckland Mayor Phil Goff is proposing a funding boost to the Art Gallery after years of funding cuts to the city’s iconic institution.

“The Auckland Art Gallery is a critical asset to the city which is why I am proposing a $20 million funding boost in Auckland Council’s 10 Year Budget,” Phil Goff said.

“We are short of funding and our first priority has to be infrastructure to address congestion, poor water quality and the housing shortage. However, we cannot neglect the things which also make out city great to live in.

“I asked the Art Gallery to make changes that would allow it to raise more revenue for itself. The Gallery has agreed to do this and the $20 charge for international visitors could raise over a million dollars a year when it settles in.

“Around 60 percent of visitors to the Gallery are international visitors and I don’t expect them to be subsidised by Auckland residents and ratepayers. Auckland Art Gallery is now operating in line with what most art institutes around the world do and what has been operating in the Auckland Museum for several years.

“I’ve talked to a number of Councillors who tell me they support increased funding for the Art Gallery. If Council adopts my proposal, this will go a long way to help ensure the Gallery can be what it needs to be for Auckland.”

The Mayor’s recommendation will be considered as part of the Council’s 10 Year Budget (2018-2018) which is being consulted with the public in March and will be agreed to in May this year.

“The Gallery has also benefited from philanthropists such as Julian and Josie Robertson and the efforts of passionate fund raisers such as Dame Jenny Gibbs.

“Auckland needs the Art Gallery to thrive and add vibrancy to it for us to be considered a world class city. Its buildings are among the most beautiful in the city and its permanent collection and exhibitions are world class,” said Mayor Goff.

Funding for the Auckland Art Gallery is provided by Council through its Regional Facilities Auckland organisation.

ENDS

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