When local elections roll around in Aotearoa, the focus often falls on the “three Rs”: roads, rates, and rubbish. These are important issues, but they don’t tell the whole story of what makes a community thrive. Equally vital is how we nurture the cultural, creative, social life and wellbeing of our towns and cities. That’s why this election season we should be asking candidates about their vision for the arts. 

Why ask questions? 

Local government has a huge role to play in shaping the cultural life of communities. Councils are often the primary funders of local artists, arts organisations, festivals, and venues. They maintain libraries, galleries, and community centres.

 They decide whether local artists get the chance to share their work and whether community groups can access spaces to create and connect. 

Yet despite their proven value the arts can be the first thing on the chopping block when budgets tighten. That’s why it’s important to put the arts on the table during elections, not as an afterthought, but as a priority. Asking candidates about their commitment to the arts sends a clear message: this matters to voters. 

Why the arts matter in our communities 

The arts are essential to healthy, connected, and resilient communities. Here are just a few reasons why: 

• Community connection: Arts and culture bring people together across backgrounds, generations, and beliefs. Accessible festivals, concerts, and community arts projects foster belonging and social cohesion. 
• Inclusion and equity: When councils value and invest in accessible arts programmes, they ensure Deaf and disabled people, migrants, Māori, and diverse communities can all see themselves reflected and celebrated. 
• Wellbeing: Participating in or experiencing the arts boosts mental health, reduces isolation, and improves overall wellbeing. 
• Economic value: Arts events attract visitors, support local businesses, and create jobs. For many towns, cultural activity is a key part of economic regeneration. 

If we want strong, safe, and thriving communities, we need thriving arts and culture at their heart. 

What to ask candidates 

So, when you meet a candidate at a local forum, see them at the market, or get that knock at the door, here are some questions you could ask: 

• “What role do you see the arts playing in our community?” 
  A good candidate should be able to articulate how arts and culture contribute to community life, not just “entertainment.” 
• “Will you commit to protecting and growing arts funding in our city/region?” 
  Funding is often the most concrete measure of support. Councils that cut arts budgets send a signal that creativity isn’t valued. 
• “How will you ensure arts and culture are accessible to and reflective of everyone including Deaf and disabled people and other diverse communities?” 
  Equity and inclusion should be at the heart of any arts strategy. 
• “Do you see arts as part of building stronger, safer, more connected neighbourhoods?”
  The arts aren’t separate from “core issues.” they’re part of the solution to social challenges. 
• “Will you advocate for partnerships with local artists and organisations, so that the arts remain visible and valued in our community?”
  Partnerships show commitment to working alongside those already doing the mahi. 

A call to action 

The arts are too important to leave out of election conversations. They shape the identity of our towns and cities. They give voice to our stories. They foster connection, resilience, and pride. 

Your vote has power, but so do your questions. When we ask candidates about the arts, we remind them that people care. We tell them that a strong, vibrant, and inclusive cultural life is not optional, it’s vital. 

Arts Access Aotearoa is proud to be an outspoken advocate for the arts, with a vision that all people in Aotearoa can access and participate in the arts. This election season we invite you to join us in this mission.   

Here’s what you can do:  

Ask! As you consider who to vote for, remember to ask: what will you do for the arts in our community?  

Get active! Share this blog, look at the resources Arts Action Now have put together for their Creativity belongs here campaign 

Tell your story! Share why the arts matter to you (Look back on our why community arts matter blog for inspiration) 

Because when the arts thrive, we all thrive.