During their residency period, artists will live and work in Parehuia; a purpose-built house with an attached studio, alongside and in relationship with the McCahon House Museum. Bespoke support is provided along with opportunities to build a community of supporters that stay with them throughout their career. The residency was established to recognise McCahon’s commitment to teaching and mentoring. 

“The McCahon House Residency has come to be regarded not just as a residency opportunity but as an award that carries with it considerable mana. Undertaking a residency at Parehuia lets you see yourself differently, it opens you to limitless futures. Parehuia is an incubator of talent.”  Judy Millar  

Application and Selection Process 
 
The residency is open to artists working across the visual arts disciplines with proven talent, who have completed a body of work acknowledged for its artistic excellence and who are ready to take a step forward in their practice. 

Applications are considered by our independent selection panel. The selection panel comprises five colleagues from the visual arts community – a selection of gallery directors, curators, critics, writers, academics, senior practitioners, and will have one representative from the McCahon House Trust and our Parehuia alumni. The panel operates independently of the Trust. 

Application Criteria 

Applicants must be New Zealand citizens or permanent residents of New Zealand at the time of entry.  
 
Applicants must be able to reside and work full-time at Parehuia during the term of the residency.  
 
The McCahon House Trust strategic priorities for the Parehuia Residency in 2026 are: 
 
The timing of the residency is a ‘game changer’ for a mid-career artist, extending their creative and professional practice, and 
The Parehuia location and environment enable a sense of focus and intention. 
 
The residency structure and wrap-around support is ideally suited to a mid-career artist – someone who has confidence and a sense of clarity of their arts practice, as well as how to utilise the residency and ensure that it is transformational and advances their career.   
 
The artist must show a practice that has been sustained and have received community acknowledgement – this can be shown through their CV, in particular their exhibition history, published texts, critical reviews and/or awards. The artist must have a sufficient body of work which clearly demonstrates current practice and development. 

The Residency 

The residency includes: 
 
- 12 weeks accommodation in a fully furnished architecturally designed two-bedroom house and studio along with a monthly stipend. 
 
- Support from the McCahon House team and Trust for the duration of your residency. This can include strategic conversations to identify potential opportunities or industry introductions.  
 
- A series of bespoke events. The residency requires artists to take part in a programme of events held during their residency. This programme is designed in collaboration with the artist. 
 
- An education video produced during your time at Parehuia available for use in schools. 
 
- An in-depth, 2000-word essay completed by a writer chosen in discussion between the Artist and the McCahon House team. 

Please see the Application Form for further information and a full list of benefits and obligations.