The Te Puia New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute in Rotorua will receive $7.6 million from the Government to ensure it continues to operate throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and after it.
"Incorporating the Te Puia Tourism Centre and the Māori arts and crafts training centre, the institute has been part of the country's Māori arts and tourism landscape for nearly 100 years, and is expected to continue to play a vital role as Aotearoa recovers and rebuilds," Minister for Maori Development, Nanaia Mahuta said.
As well as providing what's heralded as one of the most immersive experiences in Aotearoa, Te Puia is also said to be an important pillar for the preservation and promotion of Māori arts and culture.
It was formed in 1926 and operates as a tourism venture with specialised education schools dedicated to Māori arts and crafts.
"The support will safeguard the future of toi Māori and ensure that our future carvers, weavers, waka exponents, and arts and crafts champions have a place to hone and perfect Māori arts for generations to come," Mahuta said.
Prior to COVID-19, around two out of every 10 visitors to Rotorua visited Te Puia.
