Auckland launches Music Strategy

The event was held in style at the beautiful Civic Theatre Wintergarden, combining passionate speeches and uplifting performances that clearly set the tone for the possibilities that lie ahead.

The speakers included Mr Phil Goff, Mayor of Auckland, from Toronto, Amy Terrill (Executive Vice President, Music Canada) and Anthony Healey (APRA | AMCOS). Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern provided a recorded video message. MC for the occasion was Karyn Hay. There were also live performances from LEXXA and Irene Folau accompanied by Saia Folau.

The Auckland Music Strategy provides a framework for ideas and projects that will help Auckland flourish into an internationally renowned creative city with music at its heart.

“We congratulate Auckland on a well thought out strategy that is ambitious but achievable – and we look forward to seeing it continue to flourish as a creative city of music,” says Robyn Baker, Chair of the New Zealand National Commission for UNESCO.

To deliver on the action plan outlined in the strategy, projects will be developed with the aim of strengthening and leveraging existing enterprises, and providing an opportunity for all stakeholders to contribute to Auckland’s success as a music city.

Anthony Healey at APRA says, “Auckland is fortunate to enjoy one of the most diverse and unique music scenes in the world. We look forward to bringing together all aspects of the music community, leveraging their special skill sets and collective experience to showcase our musical strength internationally. We want Auckland to be a place where music can thrive for the benefit of everyone who lives here.”

Mark Roach of Recorded Music New Zealand says, “A music city is a place with a vibrant music ecosystem that delivers economic cultural and social benefits. Auckland UNESCO City of Music designation brings exciting potential to the sector, its city and its communities”.