Three Lakes Cultural Trust is preparing the region's first cultural master plan, with support from global cultural consultancy firm AEA Consulting.
AEA launched an online survey earlier this year, which had more than 800 responses, and over recent weeks has also held "community voice" meetings, discussion sessions in Arrowtown, Glenorchy, Queenstown and Wanaka.
Much of the discussion has focused on the need for more co-ordinated communication within the arts community and with audiences, a desire for improved cultural infrastructure to accommodate larger-scale visiting visual and performing arts shows, and the need for a cultural hub or hubs to support community arts practice and training.
Trust chairman Bill Moran said: "Clearly, we have confirmed there is great level of interest, need, opportunity and depth of talent to provide a variety of cultural opportunity across the entire district.
"Luma light festival, Wanaka's Festival of Colour and the Michael Hill Violin Competition are recent excellent examples of the quality and vision of culture we have currently happening within our district."
Mr Moran said the passion the community has for culture was evident during the community voice sessions.
"We experienced clear and far-sighted views, in relation to the current issues and in terms of where the community wants to be. It's about leaving our community better for those who come after us."
AEA is now incorporating the community feedback into the recommendations that are being developed for the indicative master plan, due to be completed and made public in September.
The trust is independent from Queenstown Lakes District Council and funded by members of the community.
