Government, local authorities, private patrons, private art galleries and community groups all recognise the importance of the arts and the nation's cultural heritage and provide support.
Central agencies assist the development of New Zealand culture.
Profits from state-run lotteries are used extensively to assist art galleries, museums, and cultural organisations and projects. New Zealand Lottery Grants Board funding is administered by the Department of Internal Affairs. Taonga The Ministry for Culture and Heritage was established in 1991 as the Minister of Cultural Affairs. It changed its name in 1999 after the addition of an expanded heritage mandate. The ministry provides advice to government on cultural matters and assists government in its provision and management of cultural and heritage resources.