Space Create

Space Create is a Marlborough District Council initiative aimed at revitalising our town centres by activating underused and vacant spaces with creative and energetic projects. It supports temporary public art, installations, community-led creative initiatives, and active experiences such as movement-based or recreational activities that bring energy, visibility, and fresh ideas into the CBD.

This programme is part of a broader movement seen across Aotearoa and internationally, where creative interventions are used as a catalyst for urban regeneration. Like similar initiatives—such as Gap Filler (Ōtautahi Christchurch), Urban Dream Brokerage (Wellington), Make/Shift Spaces (Whakatū Nelson), and Dunedin Dream Brokerage—Space Create connects creatives, property owners, public spaces and the wider community to reimagine the role of creativity and participation in town centre development.

At its heart, Space Create sees creative expression as a powerful tool for community wellbeing and placemaking. By supporting the creative sector to occupy vacant commercial spaces, public spaces, shopfronts, laneways, and other overlooked areas, the programme aims to turn “gaps” in the urban fabric into places of connection, experimentation, and engagement.

These temporary activations serve multiple purposes:

• they offer accessible platforms for local creatives to test ideas and grow audiences
• they create a dynamic and inviting environment for residents and visitors alike
• they add cultural and economic value by drawing foot traffic and fostering a sense of vibrancy in the CBD

For more information, whether you’re an artist looking to activate a space or a property owner wanting to add value to your building while contributing to the vibrancy of Marlborough’s town centres, please read the guides below.