Te Putanga Toi Arts Access Awards 2021

Principal Advisors Lawrence Ereatara and Hone Fletcher were recognised for their leadership, generosity and commitment to prisoner rehabilitation and community reintegration through tikanga and toi Māori.

The pair have worked together for many years and helped implement the Māori Pathways programme at Hawke’s Bay Regional Prison.

Journalist Andre Chumko was recognised for excellence and leadership in reporting about accessibility and inclusion across prisons, community arts and the professional arts sector.

Dancer Lusi Faiva was recognised for her artistic achievement, contribution to dance and advocacy within the disabled community.

Her work challenges perceptions about disability and creates space for other disabled dancers.

Circa Theatre was recognised for its long-term commitment to accessibility and for building strong relationships with Deaf and disabled communities.

These relationships were reflected in increasing attendance at its accessible performances.

Art-East was recognised for its rich mix of creative projects supporting artists affected by addiction, mental distress, isolation and institutionalisation.

Grounded in a kaupapa Māori framework, its practice brings together collaboration, innovation and inclusion.

Christchurch Symphony Orchestra was recognised for its Platform Programme with Christchurch Men’s Prison and the Pathway Trust.

Weekly classical music workshops in the prison’s Navigate Unit had a profound impact on both participants and the musicians delivering the programme.

Tipene Rangihuna was recognised for his leadership and commitment to teaching te reo Māori to men at Hawke’s Bay Regional Prison.

His work supports transformational change, strengthens te ao Māori and helps participants reconnect with their cultural identity.

Kyle Ellison and Pirika Taepa were recognised for incorporating tikanga and toi Māori into employment programmes at Hawke’s Bay Regional Prison.

Their work included building model marae and decorating them with kōwhaiwhai, strengthening connections between the prison and the wider community.