About The Arts House Trust

The Arts House Trust is dedicated to showcasing and supporting contemporary art and artists from Aotearoa New Zealand. Established in 2023, the Trust is the kaitiaki of one of the country’s largest private collections of contemporary New Zealand art, comprising nearly 9,000 works.

Based at the historic Pah Homestead in Hillsborough, Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, the Trust presents a dynamic selection of exhibitions and public programmes, as well as concerts and events that reflect the breadth and vitality of the contemporary arts sector.

Through its Art Loans Programme, The Arts House Trust extends the reach of the collection beyond the galleries, placing original works in workplaces, institutions, and public spaces. In doing so, the Trust enables art to be encountered in everyday environments, supporting both artists and wider public engagement with contemporary practice.

OUR TEAM

  • Anita Tótha

    With more than 18 years experience in the domestic and international art sectors, Anita’s strength lies in business development that links together art, culture and people.

  • Nicholas Butler

    Nicholas is the Curator and Collections Manager. He has a BFA in painting from Elam School of Fine Arts, a PGDip in Museums Studies and a MA in Art History (Honours) from Auckland University. Nicholas has curated and co-curated a range of exhibitions that explore various media, and interdisciplinary practices, working closely with emerging and established artists alike. Through exhibitions and collection research he contributes to expanding access to and engagement with one of the country’s significant private art collections. His work reflects a commitment to supporting innovative artistic practices and presenting thoughtful, accessible exhibitions for diverse audiences.

  • Tasha Jenkins

    Tasha is an arts professional with a strong track record in project delivery and client relationship management. As Art Loans Manager at The Arts House Trust, she curates tailored offerings for a diverse range of clients and helps maintain the Trust’s significant art collection.
    Prior to joining The Arts House Trust, Tasha spent six years at Webb’s auction house, including a tenure as Head of Art, where she led the Art team, secured clients and sales, and curated catalogues.
    Tasha holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts (Honours) from the University of Auckland and a Postgraduate Certificate in Cultural and Creative Practice from Auckland University of Technology. She is committed to contributing to Aotearoa’s vibrant arts community.

  • Giulia Pianelli

    Giulia is an art project manager and emerging curator committed to supporting socially and politically engaged practices, as well as cross-cultural exchange through contemporary art. In her role as Marketing & Design Lead, she promotes the Trust's dynamic programme of exhibitions, events, and art loans, while ensuring brand consistency.
    Originally from Italy, she previously held positions at Te Tuhi and other galleries and organisations across Aotearoa and Europe. Alongside her main job, she independently facilitates cultural projects between Australia, Aotearoa, and Italy.
    Giulia holds a Bachelor’s degree in Arts Management from the University of Venice, a Master’s degree in Global Marketing from the University of Milan, and a diploma in Australian Aboriginal Art History from Curtin University (Perth).

  • Nicki Manthel

    Nicki’s role as Engagement Coordinator brings together over twenty years of art gallery, education and event planning experience. She has worked in both the institutional and commercial art sectors and is committed to creating a programme that supports artists’ practices, while deepening the exhibition experience for a range of audiences. Most recently Nicki worked as the Development Manager for City Gallery Wellington Te Whare Toi and Te Whare o Rehua Sarjeant Gallery building platforms for philanthropy and support. Her time as VIP Manager for the Aotearoa Art Fair further expanded her event and public programming skills. Nicki believes art should be accessible to everyone and is keen to build new audiences through vibrant programming and a welcoming gallery environment.

  • Carolyn Shoer

    Carolyn is a seasoned professional with over 17 years of experience in the event and hospitality industry. Her career spans a diverse range of roles, from hands-on event planning and coordination to leading operations at a senior level. Most notably, Carolyn has held the position of General Manager at a prominent waterfront event space in Auckland’s Viaduct, where she oversaw large-scale events, managed teams, and delivered exceptional client experiences. Known for her calm, solutions-focused approach, Carolyn thrives in fast-paced environments and has built a reputation for bringing events to life with precision and creativity. Her passion for hospitality is rooted in creating memorable moments—whether it’s an intimate gathering or a large celebration. Carolyn’s blend of professional expertise, genuine warmth, and love for connection makes her a valued leader and a natural in the world of events.

  • David Brimble

    David is our Facilities Manager, keeping the place running and taking care of the 'nuts and bolts' of the facility. He has an agricultural background (Farm Valuation) as well as many years in the compliance field with Auckland Council, reaching Principal Specialist - Regulatory Compliance, which comes in very handy dealing with Council's facilities team in ensuring we get timely responses to issues. He also has project management qualifications such as PRINCE2 and has acheived other private qualifications such as Certificates in Environmental Engineering, Landscape Design and Managing Residential Properties. Privately, he is working towards becoming more self-sufficient with food growing, with his wife Valerie, and exercising 3 energetic dogs...'there's always something happening at our house'!

  • Michael Prosée

    Michael has a Bachelor's degree in Visual Arts majoring in painting from Unitec. In his role, he oversees exhibition installation, artwork transit and collection, liasing with team members as well as external contractors. Micheal is also a practicing multimedia artist; his practice incorporates drawing, ceramics, and painting.

  • Josh Whitaker

    Joshua Whitaker is an artist based in Tamaki Makaurau, graduating from AUT with a Master of Visual Arts in 2025. As a technician at The Arts House Trust, Joshua plays a critical role in the installation of exhibitions, Art Loans and maintenance of the Trust’s extensive art collection.

  • Hannah Ciprian

    Hannah is a Front of House Supervisor and Retail Assistant at The Arts House Trust, where she helps deliver engaging, high-quality visitor experiences in a vibrant contemporary arts environment. With extensive Front of House experience across a range of roles internationally, she brings a strong understanding of audience engagement, operations, and customer care. Passionate about the arts, Hannah is particularly interested in the intersection of creative practice and community, and is committed to fostering inclusive, welcoming spaces that connect diverse audiences with artistic experiences.

  • Megan Bennett

    In her role as Front of House Supervisor & Retail Assistant, Megan welcomes visitors and facilitates engagement with exhibitions. She brings three and a half years’ experience in arts education and visitor engagement, having held positions at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, Te Uru Contemporary Gallery and the University of Auckland Waipapa Taumata Rau. Megan is passionate about making art and cultural heritage accessible and exciting. She brings this enthusiasm to her role at The Arts House Trust organising and leading tours for diverse visitors. Megan holds a Master of Arts in Art History from the University of Auckland. Her research interests include early modern art, dress and material culture.

  • Nikita Hesketh

    Nikita is our bubbly and affiable Front of House Supervisor and Retail Assistant, she primarily works curating our Pah Gallery shop, working alongside local artists and jewellers to bring something delightful to every one that comes in. Nikita holds a Master of Visual Arts from Auckland University of Techonology. As a practicing artist, she loves being surrounded and delighted by the art and art loving people she engages with on the day to day at The Arts House Trust.

The History of Pah Homestead

Set within the picturesque Monte Cecilia Park, Pah Homestead is a historical landmark venue dating back to the 1800s. From its Italianate-inspired architecture to the panoramic views, from a sculpture garden to the beautiful lawns surrounding it, the venue is filled with stunning spaces and striking artworks.

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