Te Papa chief executive Courtney Johnston announces resignation
Courtney Johnston has resigned as the chief executive of Te Papa, New Zealand's national museum, after six-and-a-half years in the role. She is credited with navigating the museum through the Covid-19 pandemic and advancing its bicultural initiatives.
Why it matters
Leadership changes at major national cultural institutions often signal shifts in organizational strategy and public engagement priorities.
The chief executive of national museum Te Papa in Wellington has resigned after six-and-a-half years in the job.
Courtney Johnston led the museum through the difficulties of Covid lockdowns and celebrations like the official launch of the Matariki public holiday.
Johnston first worked at Te Papa as a visitor host nearly 25 years ago.
She became chief executive in 2019 after working in roles at City Gallery Wellington, the National Library of New Zealand, and as the director of The Dowse Art Museum and Petone Settlers Museum Te Whare Whaakaro o Pito-one between 2012 to 2018.
She was also chair of the umbrella group Museums Aotearoa and a regular visual arts commentator for RNZ's Nine to Noon from 2010 to 2019.
In a statement, Johnston said the position had been "a huge part of my life, personally and professionally".
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