Donna McLeod Photo: Supplied
Every week on Culture 101 we check the pulse of a different area of Aotearoa. This week, we’re in Motueka with Donna McLeod.
McLeod was the art coordinator for the town’s new five million dollar Te Noninga Kumu Motueka Public Library which opened in March 2022.
More than 20 artists contributed to more than 24 works of art displayed in the library. McLeod says it’s a space in which her tamariki and mokopuna feel safe, invited and welcome. A place they can connect to.
Māori culture has been thriving in Motueka and the region. Te Āwhina Marae is the only one locally with a carving shed focused on waka. And in October, close by, Whakatū Nelson hosted the country’s largest primary school kapa haka competition, Te Mana Kuratahi.
Te Oro Hā, Maori Theatre. Tense production for 2023 Nelson Arts Festival Photo: Supplied
