Kia ora

As many of you will be aware, the Te Papa Foundation was launched in mid-December 2016. The Friends of Te Papa are delighted that the Foundation is finally in place as plans for philanthropic support for our national museum have been underway for some time.

On behalf of the Friends Executive Committee, I am very pleased to announce that the Friends have pledged their support for the Foundation as an inaugural Cornerstone Partner. Committee members are also giving the Foundation their personal support as individual inaugural donors. Each and every donation to the Foundation, in amounts big or small, will make a difference to the future of Te Papa.

To remain at the forefront of international museums and art galleries, Te Papa requires greater financial support than that provided by central and local government. This public funding provides half of the museum’s operating budget, with Te Papa needing to raise the balance. The demands of running a successful modern museum have meant that less than 5 percent of Te Papa’s total expenditure is currently available to build its collection.

This is a wonderful opportunity to join the Foundation as an inaugural member and help ensure that Te Papa will continue to enrich and inspire future generations. With the Committee I do encourage you to consider this special opportunity and respond generously.

You will find out more about the Te Papa Foundation here.

Nāku noa, nā

Elizabeth Kay