Creativity is part of being human. As children, we create freely. The cardboard box becomes a house, a boat, a secret hiding space. We create for the joy of it, and we give things a go with no expectations. Somewhere along the way, that changes, self-criticism sets in, and creativity becomes something reserved for artists.

Toi Ora provides over 20 free creative classes, from mosaic to painting to movement. Our philosophy is that everyone is an artist. We encourage to create freely, without judgement. The team and the other artists offer support. This is where the magic happens, creating in a supportive community allows for transformation.

It makes me tear up every time I hear, one of our artists say, ‘Coming to Toi Ora saved my life’. It’s an absolute privilege to be a part of this journey. I’ve seen artists come into Toi Ora, kind of like the first day of school, shy, withdrawn, unsure of themselves and their creative abilities. It can take time to settle in and soon they build confidence, and it’s this resilience that can change lives.

Circumstances can vary hugely. I’ve seen artists go from living out of their cars to full-time employment or not having anyone to connect with to making friends. Others have showcased in prestigious galleries in New Zealand or entered and won competitions. I’ve noticed the relief of whānau members that their loved one has a safe, supportive space where they can express themselves while they work, take care of some errands, or tend to their own wellbeing.

Increased happiness and reduced anxiety

It’s not only anecdotal. Creativity enhances wellbeing.  A QWB Lab report found that our participants experienced a 52 percent increase in happiness and a 48 percent reduction in anxiety. Nearly one in four said the benefits of a class lasted a week or longer.

Participation in the creative process engages people on multiple levels emotionally, intellectually and socially. When artists work alongside each other, they not only learn new skills they also reflect on their own perspectives and experiences.

This shared journey fosters a sense of purpose and belonging. Seeing a tangible result at the end, whether it’s a painting, a performance, or a collaborative work, reinforces a sense of achievement and pride.

It so happens that it is cost-effective too. It costs $60 for a person to attend a two-hour creative class. This makes Toi Ora and, for that matter, other creative spaces around the country like Artsenta in Dunedin, Ōtautahi Creative Spaces in Christchurch or Vincents Art Workshop in Wellington to name a few, an essential component in recovery with flow-on effects not just for health but for our social, justice and employment. 

Toi Ora receives core funding from Health NZ but demand has surged with enrolments doubling to more than 500 artists in just two years and we see opportunities to expand. One in three New Zealanders experience mental health distress, and the truth is, none of us are immune. It affects all of us, and we’re all only a few tough breaks away from challenges. It’s time to think differently and creatively about mental health.

Thanks to Toi Ora for permission to publish this opinion piece, first published in The Post on Thursday 23 October 2025. Toi Ora is a creative space in Auckland providing free art classes for people experiencing mental health challenges. It is a member of the Creative Spaces Network.