Fundraising campaign for arts centre
A campaign has begun to raise $30 million for the world-class centre of musical, cultural and educational excellence being planned for Wellington’s Civic Square.
The campaign, by Victoria University of Wellington and the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra (NZSO), is being headed by former Wellington mayor Kerry Prendergast, who announced last night that the new auditorium would be named the Adam Auditorium, in gratitude for a ‘‘substantial’’ gift from the Adam Foundation.
Prendergast said she hoped to have the majority of the fundraising completed within the next year.
‘‘We’re beginning to approach those we believe are significant Wellingtonians who may be interested in a naming-right opportunity. There will be opportunities for trusts, as well as corporates, and we will of course go to Government for help as well.’’
Wellington City Council has already committed to funding the seismic strengthening of the Town Hall, and design work for this first stage of the project is under way.
The second stage, approved in principle by Victoria and the NZSO, will include extensive redevelopment of the Municipal Office Building to accommodate the orchestra and the New Zealand School of Music, and link the building to the Town Hall and Civic Square.
The fundraising efforts will contribute to the cost of this second stage, which is scheduled to open in 2021.
Victoria University Vice-Chancellor Professor Grant Guilford urged others to consider supporting the fundraising campaign. ‘‘This project, based on a powerful threeway partnership between the city and two of Wellington’s leading institutions will strengthen local and national communities and grow Wellington’s international reputation as a creative capital.
‘‘It will also create a wealth of new possibilities for events, festivals and collaborations and an outstanding education for the next generation of musicians. We are proud to be involved and encourage others to join us in this exciting initiative.’’
Mayor Justin Lester also signalled his strong support of the fundraising campaign.
Christopher Blake, chief executive of NZSO, said it would allow the orchestra to offer a wider range of performances, recordings and broadcasts to its audiences.
‘‘The acoustics of the Town Hall are perfect for orchestral performances and recordings. This venture will ultimately ensure we have the technology and facilities to share our music and projects more easily in New Zealand and beyond, thereby increasing our contribution to Wellington’s economy.’’