New trust formed to run annual buskers event

A new ratepayer-owned charitable trust will run the World Buskers Festival in Christchurch.

The main reason for the change, approved by the Christchurch City Council last week, is to give greater public accountability.

The council bought the annual festival last May but agreed to let the long-term organiser, the Festival City Trust, run this year's event.

That group founded the festival in 1994. The council's plans to create a new trust attracted no public submissions, which prompted the Festival City Trust to ask for another three years in charge.

Last week's move ruled that out, although some members will probably be appointed to the new trust.

Council solicitor Robert O'Connor said a council hearings panel believed the new trust would ensure greater public accountability.

Forming a charitable trust meant it could apply for grants and other funds to help cover costs.

The 2007 and 2008 festivals made losses of about $7000, while the 2009 event broke even.

This year's festival is also expected to break even.

- © Fairfax NZ News