ETHAN ROGACION (He/Him)
In a joint statement, Wellington City Council and Te Herenga Waka announced their intention to move the New Zealand School of Music Te Kōkī from their iconic tiny yellow shack to Te Ngākau Civic Square.
In the latest development in the years-long national music centre saga, the University stated that they plan for the NZSM to move to Te Matapihi—the maligned central library—“once strengthening and modernising work on the library is completed in early 2026.” The national music centre aims to bring the NZSM into a shared precinct alongside the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra (NZSO).
This occurs in the aftermath of wide staff cuts at the NZSM, and has stirred mixed emotions amongst the faculty’s supporters. One commenter on the ‘Save NZSM’ Facebook page argued that, “[c]reating a central Hub like this and being close to NZSO can only inspire and motivate…”, and added they were, “inspired by the vision but still grieving the incredible experience and world class staff let go.”
VUW’s Provost Professor Bryony James told Salient that, “The goal is for all of the NZSM to relocate in Te Ngākau/Civic Square,” which will house “performance, teaching, and administrative spaces.”
“The University’s decision to progress Te Ngākau negotiations enables us to integrate discussion about the future use of NZSM Kelburn facilities in the context of this year's planned refreshment of the long-term property plan.”
Salient approached Quasi (the giant hand on top of City Gallery and the NZSM’s future neighbour) for comment, but did not receive a response.