Stephen Wainwright comes to the National Army Museum with a deep interest in military history and New Zealand history. Like many families, he feels his has been shaped by New Zealand’s involvement in international conflicts. With his ancestors coming to New Zealand in 1880, his grandfather and great uncle served in WWI, with one resting in Ribecourt cemetery in France.
Stephen’s career in New Zealand has been with the Crown Entity; the Arts Council of New Zealand Toi Aotearoa where he has been Chief Executive since 2006 (retiring April 2025). This has given him an insight into New Zealander’s attitudes, participation, and attendance in the arts and culture, and how this contributes to identity, and a deep understanding of the importance of people, place and shared history.
Stephen’s academic qualifications and interests are informed and inspired by art and history, and how it can harness the public and business sector knowledge for the benefit of all New Zealanders. Stephen’s work at the Arts Council, which has been in some ways a long wānanga, has given him wonderful and enriching experiences and relationships that have shaped his world view even more than the post-graduate opportunities he has had the fortune to access.
Stephen is excited by the opportunity to contribute with his colleagues to the work of the National Army Museum Te Mata Toa.