Renaissance Taranaki

The invention of the printing press in the 15th century  led to colossal changes in society.

New technology gave the common man and woman access to the great revolutionary ideas of the time.

Brilliant works of art & architecture emerged throughout Europe. Political, religious and philosophical debate became dinner-time conversation in homes across the continent. By the end of the next century Europe was a much more educated, developed and prosperous place.

This was the height of a time known today as the Renaissance. It led to the great Reformation of the Church. It gave rise to the social revolutions in Europe and the rights and freedoms that we know today.

21st Century Renaissance

The late 20th century invention of the internet has brought about a whole new wave of education and learning. Men and women are once again acquainting themselves with the great political, religious and philosophical debates of their day.

As local scientist Michael Fenton pointed out in a 2008 interview with the Daily News;

“We are emerging from a Second Dark Age, a time epitomized by a lack of individual understanding and a reliance of government policy and academics for wisdom…”

“Now we are talking about sustainability, hybrid cars, carbon footprints.”

Renaissance Taranaki Trust

Renaissance Taranaki is an education and community development trust formed to anticipate the growing needs and aspirations of Taranaki’s people as active and thinking community members and citizens.

Renaissance Taranaki promotes research and development of educational & community development services with an emphasis on the arts and humanities, the social sciences and civics education.