Rotorua ArtsVillage (RAVE) is a complex of studios and meeting rooms that provide facilities for art groups to get together throughout the day, and for a wide variety of art classes for all ages and levels of skill. Two galleries provide the opportunity for artists to showcase their work, while the spacious grounds play host to a range of arts-related festivals and events throughout the year.

Our History

The Rotorua Arts Village is situated on land gifted by Ngati Whakaue in 1880, and the facility was built as a millennium gift to the city from the Rotorua Energy Charitable Trust. The Village incorporates two heritage listed houses, (Wolhmann House circa 1910 and Lewis House circa 1908), and a third house built in 1924. These separate houses have been joined together by the construction of 3 large airy studios to become the Arts Centre we now know as RAVE (Rotorua Arts Village Experience).

In May 2002 the Village opened its doors. The Rotorua Arts Village Trust was created in October 2002 with the support of the Rotorua District Council and the Community. The day to day running of the fresh facility was done by a team of dedicated volunteers and overseen by a management committee comprising of trust members and volunteers.

The Arts Village’s core funding is provided jointly by the Rotorua District Council and The Rotorua Energy Charitable Trust. Funding is sought from other funders for specific projects.

In January 2003 the first full time paid manager of the Village was appointed and this enabled RAVE to grow in its ability to meet the community needs.