Explore Aotearoa New Zealand’s unique art scene with these incredible art galleries, ranging from major collecting institutions to small regional gems.
Auckland
The Auckland Art Gallery(opens in new window) houses New Zealand’s largest art collection, spanning historic, modern, and contemporary works. These artworks plot a visual history of New Zealand, beginning with the first contact between Māori and European explorers in the 1600s through to contemporary art reflecting the experiences of Māori and Pacific artists. Collection highlights include works by Charles F. Goldie, Rita Angus, Gordon Walters, Colin McCahon, Don Binney, and Shane Cotton.
Wellington
At Te Papa(opens in new window), the evolution of New Zealand art is explored through interactive exhibitions, curated according to an ‘art is for everyone’ ethos. Expect to see traditional Māori artworks alongside contemporary commissions and find jewellery and ceramics displayed with as much care as fine art. Highlights of the collection include works by Colon McCahon, Rita Angus, C. F. Goldie, Shane Cotton, Ralph Hotere, Don Binney, and Grahame Sydney.
Ōtautahi Christchurch
The Christchurch Art Gallery(opens in new window) is home one of the country’s largest art collections and hosts an extraordinary programme of local and international exhibitions. The gallery also has a strong reputation for commissioning new works that reflect the city and its people.
Whangārei
Friedensreich Hundertwasser was one of Europe’s most-celebrated artists when he moved to New Zealand and became known simply as Friedrich, the guy who lived off-grid and wore funny hats. As a gift to New Zealand, he designed the Hundertwasser Art Centre(opens in new window) in Whangārei, completing it just before his death, almost thirty years before its construction. The arts centre houses original works by the artist and the Wairau Māori Art Gallery – New Zealand's first gallery dedicated to contemporary Māori art. The Māori art gallery was established at the request of the artist, who had a deep respect for Māori art and culture.
Auckland
After a stint as a critic and lecturer, Anna Miles established the Anna Miles Gallery(opens in new window) so she could help young New Zealand artists establish their careers. Exhibiting everything from fine art to weaving and door handles made from volcanic rock, Anna’s philosophy is more about the process of making art than the finished product. For a peak at what’s coming up, check out Annas’s desk, which sits inside the gallery. This is where she often displays small “preview” artworks to give visitors a glimpse of what’s next in the programme.
Auckland
Gow Langsford(opens in new window) is New Zealand’s largest art dealer, representing both New Zealand and international artists, including John Pule, Shane Cotton, Laurence Aberhart, Max Gimblett, Michael Hight, and Dick Frizzell. The gallery comprises two separate exhibition spaces that are just a few minutes apart, and both are conveniently located just down from the Auckland Art Gallery.
Auckland
For traditional Māori arts and crafts, visit Āhua Art Gallery(opens in new window). The works are made by students and graduates of the New Zealand Māori Arts & Crafts Institute and include weaving and carving made from bone, stone, and bronze. Commissions are available.
Timaru
On cliffs and caves scattered across the South Island are beautiful paintings of mythical creatures and native animals that have since become extinct, such as the Haast's eagle (giant eagle) and Moa (a large flightless bird). These centuries-old drawings were made by Māori as far back as 800 years ago, when they first arrived from Polynesia. See eight stunning examples of this ancient art form in a gallery setting at Te Ana Māori Rock Art Centre(opens in new window). Or explore among the caves at Ōpihi on Aotearoa New Zealand's only guided rock art tour.