State of the Arts
TĀMAKI MAKAURAU SURVEY SEPTEMBER 2020
Te Taumata Toi-a-Iwi commissioned Dovetail, an Auckland-based research and evaluation company, to undertake a second survey to understand the ongoing impact of COVID-19 on Auckland’s creative sector. The survey was distributed via email and social media networks in September 2020. We had 146 responses, with the responses providing an overview of impacts, including event cancellations, financial impacts, priorities, support needs and reflections from COVID-19.
INFOGRAPHIC
From the Tāmaki Makaurau State of the Arts Survey September 2020

conclusions
From the Tāmaki Makaurau State of the Arts Survey September 2020
Six months on from the first COVID-19 lockdown, this survey reveals that the creative sector in Tāmaki Makaurau is cautiously rebuilding, with some optimism and resilience emerging, yet is still being buffeted by the challenges that COVID brings.
Those participating in the survey appear to some extent to be in a stronger position to get by than the previous April survey, yet for many, uncertainty about the viability of their personal earning capacity, or that of the organisations they’re part of, remains an ongoing issue.
Many in the creative sector are building in contingency planning, shifting to online delivery where
feasible, and working day to day to maintain viability and momentum. The inability to plan for the
long term appears to be keenly felt across the sector.
The survey findings suggest a disproportion impact among Māori and Moana Oceania respondents, particularly in terms of cancellations, uncertainty and ensuring viability. At the same time, these groups have also shown a willingness to adapt and build new forms of delivery.
For the creative sector, the findings reinforce those of the earlier April survey, particularly recognition of the value of the arts, the importance of advocacy and leadership, and the need for continued financial support.