Assistant Curator Contemporary Art and Collections

Join us at New Plymouth District Council! Tūhono mai ki Te Kaunihera-ā-Rohe o Ngāmotu!

Who are we? - Ko wai mātou?

At the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery | Len Lye Centre, we are a bold and innovative contemporary art centre, connecting people, communities and cultures and encouraging critical dialogue about the world we live in. Founded in 1970 through the visionary generosity of Monica Brewster, the gallery is an internationally recognised space for contemporary art, with a special focus on Aotearoa and connecting outward into Te Moana nui-a-Kiwa. We are the global home of pioneering filmmaker and kinetic sculptor Len Lye, whose legacy remains relevant through exhibitions, publications and archives in the award-winning Len Lye Centre and Cinema. We honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles of partnership, participation and protection by recognising tangata whenua and respecting tikanga and taonga and create opportunities for diverse audiences to engage with art in meaningful ways.

The opportunity - Te āheinga

Join the team at the iconic Govett-Brewster Art Gallery | Len Lye Centre as our Assistant Curator Contemporary Art and Collections, a permanent full-time role offering the opportunity to help shape and share some of Aotearoa New Zealand's most exciting contemporary art experiences.

Working closely with the curatorial team, you will support the research, development and delivery of contemporary art exhibitions, collection displays, events and publications that engage and inspire diverse audiences. You'll contribute to curatorial research, collection interpretation and exhibition development, while building strong relationships with artists, lenders, collaborators and key stakeholders.

This role also plays an important part in supporting the care, documentation and interpretation of the Govett-Brewster Collection, helping ensure our nationally significant collection is accessible, well-managed and meaningfully connected to our communities. From assisting with exhibition delivery and collection projects to contributing to public programmes and audience engagement initiatives, no two days will be the same.

If you're a curious, organised and collaborative arts professional with a passion for contemporary art, collections and storytelling, this is an exciting opportunity to grow your curatorial career within one of New Zealand's leading contemporary art institutions.

Key Responsibilities - Ngā Haepapa Matua

• Assist with researching, developing and delivering contemporary art exhibitions and projects.
• Undertake research on artists, artworks and art practices to support exhibitions, publications and collection projects.
• Contribute to exhibition content, interpretation, publications and visitor resources.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with artists, curators, lenders and key stakeholders.
• Support exhibition planning, installation, deinstallation and logistics to ensure high-quality visitor experiences.
• Assist with artwork handling, documentation, condition reporting and collection care in line with best practice standards.
• Support collection management, digitisation, database maintenance and collection research activities.
• Contribute to the delivery and promotion of public programmes, events, talks and artist engagements.
• Work collaboratively across teams to deliver projects on time and to a high standard.
• Champion Te Tiriti o Waitangi, mātauranga Māori and meaningful partnerships with mana whenua and Māori communities.

Essential skills and experience - Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako

• Tertiary qualification in art history, curatorial practice, museum studies or related discipline.
• Demonstrated knowledge of contemporary art and contemporary cultural practice.
• Experience in exhibition development, gallery projects, museum practice or related arts organisations.
• Experience undertaking research and producing written content.
• Experience working collaboratively with artists, communities or external stakeholders.
• Understanding of collection management practices and museum standards is desirable.
• Understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and commitment to culturally responsive practice.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.

Why Taranaki? - He aha ngā hua o te rohe nei?

Taranaki isn't just a region - it's a way of life. Here, you'll find the perfect blend of career opportunities and lifestyle in one incredible place. Framed by the majestic Mounga Taranaki and the sparkling Tasman Sea, this is where you can hike world-class trails, surf uncrowded beaches and immerse yourself in a vibrant arts and culture scene - all within minutes of each other.

With affordable living, great schools and a strong sense of community, Taranaki is the ideal spot to live, work and raise a family. Whether you're chasing adventure, craving tranquillity or looking for both, life here offers an unbeatable balance that makes every day extraordinary.

What We Offer - Ngā Ratonga

At New Plymouth District Council, we're not just offering jobs - we're building careers and creating a workplace where people thrive.

When You Join Us, You'll Discover The Following

• Clear career pathways - to help you grow and succeed
• Learning and development opportunities - that keep you ahead of the game
• Support for personal and professional growth - so you can be your best self

Plus, our People's Package is designed with you in mind, covering five key pillars: Wellbeing, Development, Benefits, Culture and Recognition.

Why join us? - Ngā hua o tō hono mai?

Your wellbeing matters to us. We're committed to creating an inclusive, supportive workplace where your contributions are valued and celebrated. Together, we're shaping a vibrant future for New Plymouth - one step, one idea, one achievement at a time.

Applications close Monday, 26 October 2026

Be part of a council that values people, culture, and opportunity. Me tūhono mai koe kia tautoko I te Ngāmotu o āpōpō!

Te Kaunihera-ā-rohe o Ngāmotu is an equal opportunity employer (EOE), and we are committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application to assist you through the recruitment process