Courtney Johnston to step down as Te Papa’s Tumu Whakarae | Chief Executive, Te Papa, 19 August 2026,
Te Papa’s Tumu Whakarae | Chief Executive Courtney Johnston is to step down in October after six and a half years in the role.
“Since I first worked at Te Papa 25 years ago as a visitor host, the museum has been a huge part of my life, personally and professionally,” says Ms Johnston.
“Being appointed Tumu Whakarae was a dream, and the role has offered me more than I could ever have imagined.
“Leading within Te Papa’s unique co-leadership model has been a particular privilege, and I thank Kaihautū Arapata Hakiwai for all his support over my tenure.”
Ms Johnston says as a Chief Executive, it is always difficult to determine the best time to leave.
“However, I am proud of what we have achieved. I believe that Te Papa is in a much stronger position than when I started. I now want to focus on recharging and exploring some long-delayed creative projects before moving into another senior role.”
The construction of the museum’s new Biodiversity Research Centre in Upper Hutt, the museum’s increased self-generated revenue, and the major exhibition He Toi Whakairo opening in two weeks’ time show that the organisation is in good heart.
Ms Johnston notes public occasions like the hosting of the official launch of the Matariki public holiday, major exhibitions including Vivienne Westwood & Jewellery and Dinosaurs of Patagonia, and the repatriations of koiwi tangata on Te Papa’s marae as highlights of her tenure.
“Alongside many special public moments, there have been so many behind the scenes occasions that have made this role incredibly rewarding,” says Ms Johnston.
“I’ve been there as we’ve returned taonga to their people, on their marae. I’ve helped add a specimen to our botany collection. I stood at the front door when we closed the museum for the first Covid lock-down, and stood at the front door again when we welcomed visitors back in. I have so many indelible memories from this time.”
Kaihautū Dr Arapata Hakiwai, who led Te Papa alongside Ms Johnston over the duration of her tenure, says Ms Johnston has been deeply instrumental in advancing Te Papa’s bicultural kaupapa and commitment to the museum’s mana taonga principle – core values of Te Papa that have made the museum a world leader.
“As a Co-Leader, she has been a strong and compassionate leader and shown deep care for the taonga we are responsible for and the communities we serve. She will be very much missed by both our kaimahi and the communities we work with.”
Chair of Te Papa’s Board, Chris Swasbrook, says Ms Johnston has led with passion and determination over her time as Tumu Whakarae.
“The museum has faced a number of significant challenges, including the Covid period, the closure of our specialist collection facility, and the pressures of the economic recession.
“With the first year of construction for our new Biodiversity Research Centre completed and a programme of financial strengthening well underway, she leaves the museum well positioned for its next period of growth.”