Head of Curatorial and Programmes

Te tūranga | The role

Wheako Pōneke Experience Wellington is seeking an exceptional curatorial leader to join our City Gallery Wellington & Content directorate at a pivotal moment of growth and transformation.

This is a rare opportunity to lead a talented cross-disciplinary team of curators, programmers and audience specialists, shaping an ambitious programme of exhibitions, events and public experiences across our network of cultural sites. Working closely with the Ringatohu Whakakite Auaha | Director City Gallery Wellington & Content and the Head Curator Art, you will help define the creative direction of our organisation while ensuring excellence in programme delivery.

Ngā tino pūkenga me ngā wheako | The essential skills and experience for the role

At least 10 years experience curating exhibitions in area of specialisation, ideally with experience curating international content and/or in an international context.   Publication record that includes books, peer reviewed periodicals, reviews and more general audience content for exhibition and digital channels Clear understanding of Te Tiriti partnership obligations in a museum/gallery context Experience supporting and developing curatorial staff in cross cultural context   Relevant PhD or deep working experience with a track record of major exhibitions and publications

Ko wai mātou | Who are we

At Wheako Pōneke Experience we lead Wellington in remarkable experiences. We offer incredible audience experiences across our six sites: Te Whare Toi City Gallery Wellington, Nōku Te Ao Capital E, Te Waka Huia o Ngā Taonga Tuku Iho Wellington Museum, Te Ara Whanui ki te Rangi Space Place, Cable Car Museum and Nairn Street Cottage.

We are committed to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and support tāngata whenua as kaitiaki.

Wheako Pōneke Experience Wellington embraces flexible working and offers generous leave provisions, including 5 weeks annual leave for all permanent kaimahi.

If you want to work with like-minded community builders, passionate about art and culture, we would love to hear from you.  To join our team, please submit your CV, a cover letter and complete our online application form for our consideration.  For further information on the role please contact [email protected].

Applications close 1 September 2026. Applications will be shortlisted as they come in.

Applicants for this position must be eligible to work in New Zealand with NZ citizenship, residency or a valid work visa. For advice on obtaining a New Zealand work or residence visa visit www.immigration.govt.nz