AMY RUSS
Whakatū’s grassroots arts and activism hub is on the hunt for an iconic new home as it has outgrown its current space.
A year ago, WAA! (Whakatū Arts and Action) Club was finding its feet. Now, it has become a gathering place, bringing the creative community together through live music, poetry and other events.
The volunteer-run club is looking for a new venue, with its current building at 183 Bridge St on the market and its space already at capacity.
Co-founder and member Alan Proctor-Thomson says the organisation is exploring possibilities, including the former Nelson Institute building, once home to the city’s library and museum.
Vacant for 14 years, the heritage building could offer the space needed to take the club’s vision to the next level, with plans potentially including a black-box theatre, rehearsal rooms, and shared common room spaces.
“The Nelson Institute Club is one of the oldest in the country and we would love to have it return to the building. For most of its history it was funded by its membership and stayed fiercely independent. That’s how WAA! Club works too. We’d love to give the building that purpose again,” Alan says.
The idea was shared at a GAAla! event on 15 October, where community and business leaders gathered for performances and talks before visiting the former Institute building.
“We want to know what our members and supporters think about the idea of moving the club to a building like the Institute. It’s an exciting possibility and that’s what we are trying to build – understanding about and support for what WAA! Club can do for Whakatū Nelson,” Alan says.
WAA! is a self-funded, not-for-profit charity. Its programme spans record listening parties, youth-run shows and stand-up comedy to board game evenings, workshops, language meetups, poetry nights and community choirs.
With room for just 75 people, the venue is struggling to keep pace with demand. Its $10 weekly membership has grown to 125 households, with the club anticipating that could reach between 300 and 500 with a permanent home.
WAA! Club is investigating other venue options and welcomes conversations with potential landlords.
“We need to keep the ball rolling in obligation to our members’ needs for a permanent and functional central city space.”
With more than 200 events a year in its sights, the club hopes to create a lasting home for local creativity, independent thinking and community connection.
Those interested in supporting or discussing potential venues can contact info@waaclub.nz or visit waaclub.nz
