Toi Whakaari is one of New Zealand’s most exciting cultural and teaching organisations. Established in 1970 and located in Wellington, the school embraces both tikanga Māori and contemporary international practices, creating a unique bicultural learning environment that fosters innovation, collaboration, and artistic excellence. 

From their whare standing on whenua in Te Whanganui a Tara, they celebrate a whakapapa that spans more than 50 years of nurturing arts talent through discipline specific training in Aotearoa. They develop independent practitioners who are creators, innovators, and initiators. Graduates of Toi Whakaari are some of the leading voices within the creative sector both nationally and internationally.

The Role: 

As Development Manager, you will be a vital member of the team focused on generating essential revenue streams. You'll take ownership of the fundraising and sponsorship initiatives, work collaboratively with the Tumuaki/Poutūhono and Tira Mana Kōkiri to create and implement sustainable fundraising strategies. 

You will work with alumni and friends of Toi Whakaari to create donor journeys, write proposals, secure gifts from major donors and corporate sponsors and establish a planned giving (bequests) programme.

This is a proactive, hands-on role, crucial for securing the financial future of the institution.

You will need the following:

• At least 5 years' experience in relationship fundraising, preferably in the arts sector
• Demonstrated success in mid-level gifts, corporate sponsorship and alumni giving programmes
• Experience building successful interdepartmental relationships
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• A passion for theatre/the performing arts
• A commitment to te reo and kaupapa Māori

Click here for the full position description. 

This is an exciting role in a unique environment, an opportunity to contribute to an institution shaping the next generation of New Zealand's performing artists. Your fundraising expertise will directly support the institution’s students and help Toi Whakaari preserve their legacy as New Zealand's premier school of performing arts.

This is a full-time role (open for part-time for the right candidate) based in Newtown, Wellington. The salary is $80-90k depending on experience.

Applications close: Sunday 20 July 2025
Applications and queries to: Tilda Bostwick (021 427 183) or email tilda@fundraisingtalent.co.nz

Suitable or qualified job applicants may be interviewed before the closing date.

Fundraising Talent is a specialist recruiter for the charity sector, a member of The Fundraising Institute of NZ, and the RCSA. For more roles like this please visit  www.fundraisingtalent.co.nz