Investing in Manawatū-Whanganui

Read about Manawatū-Whanganui creative spaces that received three-year funding from Manatū Taonga. Their stories demonstrate the impact of the funding and what they were able to achieve.
Visit the Manawatū-Whanganui directory for contact details.

Creative Sounds Society (The Stomach)

We are dedicated to the encouragement of creative, musical, artistic and performance activity. Our venue in Palmerston North is known as The Stomach and is a space for musicians of all ages, levels and identities. Accessibility and affordability are key goals to ensure all people are able to access music.

The Stomach has been a fixture of the Aotearoa music scene since 1988. Playing host to bands, tours, recordings and rehearsals, it has more than 300 members and offers affordable professional music services, rehearsal spaces, drug and alcohol-free venues, a recording studio and sound engineer. 

Download the story

Creative Sounds Society (The Stomach) (pdf)

Creative Sounds Society (The Stomach)(Word)

WAI Collective

WAI is a facilitated group of women who have all experienced violence and abuse. Its members are artists, activists and advocates for social change. The WAI studio is a safe space where women create work in a wide range of media, including clay, print, paint, sculpture, inks, textiles and paper.

We offer four dynamic programmes: a wāhine studio, a rangatahi studio for 13  to 18-year-olds, our Weaving In induction programme (available both face-to-face and online each term) and an online creative writing programme. Tea, coffee and kai are provided. Every year, WAI members set a kaupapa and work towards an exhibition.

Download the story

WAI Collective (pdf)

WAI Collective (Word)

Whanganui Creative Space

Whanganui Creative Space is dedicated to fostering creativity in a safe, inclusive environment. We welcome individuals of all backgrounds, providing resources and support to explore artistic talents. With professional tutors guiding their journey, artists can develop their skills alongside others who are celebrated for their contributions to both art and community.

This vibrant space is not only for creating art but also for meeting new people, forming connections and learning valuable skills. Artists can showcase and sell their work through the studio and regular exhibitions at local cafés. With no joining fees and free tuition and materials, we ensure financial barriers don’t limit artistic expression.

Download the story

Whanganui Creative Space (pdf)

Whanganui Creative Space (Word)