Mark Roach, Director of ACOM, the Auckland City of Music Trust, has announced that he will step down from his position on 30 June 2025. The Auckland City of Music Trust will also be wound down, concluding its operations as kaitiaki and representative of the city’s UNESCO Creative Cities Network designation.

“It has been one of the greatest privileges of my career to lead this kaupapa over the last eight years,” says Roach. “I have been continually inspired by the talent, creativity, and deep expertise that exists within our music sector. I’m incredibly proud of the projects and initiatives we’ve delivered, the global awards we have garnered, and grateful for the many people, cultures, and rich experiences this role has brought. I truly hope this work has helped pave the way for the future success of our city’s vibrant music ecosystem.”

Roach was instrumental in Auckland gaining UNESCO recognition as a City of Music in 2017 and the trust has provided ongoing momentum to help maintain this designation. This focus has brought opportunities and recognition from UNESCO’s global network to Auckland, both as a destination and to the city’s many talented musicians and wider music sector. 

“I would like to acknowledge the role this body has played over the past eight years to champion and maintain Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland’s designation within the UNESCO Creative Cities Network as a designated City of Music,” said Kenneth Aiolupotea, General Manager of Community Wellbeing for Auckland Council.

Council will retain Auckland’s UNESCO status, at least until the completion of the upcoming local body election cycle, with Mayor Wayne Brown becoming the City of Music representative – a role which Roach has filled pro bono over the last few years since industry/council funding of the Trust was halted. The possible continuation of the city’s UNESCO Creative Cities involvement as a ‘City of Music’ will be reviewed after the elections by incoming elected members.