23 Jul 2012

Ministry proposes downgrading NZSO's status

11:44 pm on 23 July 2012

The Ministry of Culture and Heritage has released a report proposing changes to the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, including dropping its status as a Crown entity.

Some arts critics say that would force the NZSO to become more commercial.

But ministry deputy chief executive Catherine Baxter says the report is looking at the running of all major orchestras, not just the NZSO.

And she says losing crown entity status would not mean less funding for the NZSO.

Arts, Culture and Heritage Minister Christopher Finlayson says disestablishing the NZSO is unthinkable.