Arts Whakatāne continues to put on several exhibitions and shows through the year – raising funds and drawing on volunteers to bring these events to the community.

Speaking at the Arts Whakatāne AGM on Wednesday night, chairperson Susanne Whale acknowledged the challenges and successes the organisation had faced over the past year, highlighting the dedication of volunteers and the impact of reduced funding.

“One of our biggest issues as a small committee has been quite a heavy workload,” said Whale.

The arts group is seeking a new permanent treasurer and secretary, and encourages the community to get involved as volunteers in the many events it puts on during the year.

Whale also pointed to the wider challenge facing many charities – shrinking funding pools.

Arts Whakatāne scaled back its events in 2025 to focus resources particularly on delivering the Molly Morpeth Canaday Award (MMCA), a prestigious national art competition.

“We were particularly struggling with finding for the MMCA but were determined to overcome these hurdles to be able to continue with this nationally important award.”

Whale said they had lost two valuable members of the finance team, who dedicated significant efforts to funding applications, securing a sizeable Creative New Zealand grant for the 23/24 financial year.

But they were also fortunate to have assistance from the Whakatane District Council, had a committee that organised events, had been able to employ an events coordinator, and to pay for promotions and for aspects of the Molly and parts of other events.

"We all wish that we had guaranteed funding for at least one Eastern Bay arts co-ordinator who could apply for funding for events and short-term contracts for specific events.

“I am envious of paid staff in other centres such as Tauranga who have Creative Bay of Plenty.”

Despite the funding difficulties, the group delivered and collaborated on a wide range of successful events in the past year, including Trust Horizon Light Up Whakatāne, the Artist Collective Exhibition, Art in the Park, Whakaari Art in Shop Windows, MMCA 2025, Twilight Amphitheatre Concert, Arts Under the Rākau and Meet the Locals.

Looking ahead, Light Up Whakatāne 2025 opens this weekend, and features an Art Trail of installations.