Search
Close this search box.

Head of New Zealand and Pacific Cultures

Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa

For nearly two decades, Te Papa has housed, nurtured and empowered the legacies of New Zealand and its people. We are built on a foundation of innovation and co-creation – a striking collision of community and culture that has transformed our history and our heritage into something tangible, something engaging. As our journey continues, we embrace the idea of renewal and the opportunity to once again delve into New Zealand, its past, present, and future. We pride ourselves on what our predecessors have created, something that is contemporary, cutting-edge, and unique to our country.

Here is an opportunity that is unlike any other. As our Head of New Zealand and Pacific Cultures, you’ll play a vital role in the Collections, Research and Engagement Directorate, developing and delivering a comprehensive intellectual and strategic direction for the New Zealand and Pacific Cultures programme.

As Te Papa embarks on a new and exciting journey, you will provide the creativity and innovation needed to further cultivate a programme that is engaging, appreciated, and embedded in everyday practice. With overarching management across the entire approach, you will collaborate with fellow curatorial areas to develop a sound acquisition plan that leads to the successful implementation of a renewed collection. Conducting independent research on a regular basis will ensure you are at the forefront of any emerging trends, and with a heavy focus on bringing the programme into the digital era, you’ll create a structure that will enhance our online offering. You will also lead the curatorial team, fostering their creativity and innovative minds, enabling them to bring your strategies and ideas to life.

Your wide-spread knowledge across Pakeha and Pacific cultures will be backed by a relevant PhD and you are well versed and respected in the sector. You have a number of high quality national and international networks with which you can connect to at a curatorial level, and as an ambassador for the programme you have the capability to motivate key stakeholders and partnerships as well as the wider community to engage with your concepts. You’re one to inspire and excite. From hip hop to Captain James Cook; modern art to the unique treasures of Pasifika, you’ll present all of it in a way that is unique and meaningful.

Now is your time to bring your exceptional abilities to an organisation that is constantly breaking new ground and will allow you to fully immerse yourself in some of the most amazing work in the world – work that is both tangible and incredibly rewarding.

If you’re ready to take part in one of the most important and inspiring evolutions in both New Zealand and the museum sector worldwide, we would love to talk to you.

For further information on the position or to apply online please visit our website www.tepapa.govt.nz/jobs.

If you have any further questions please contact [email protected]