Whether it’s a family visit or a business trip, no journey is truly complete without a quick art break. These galleries are well worth your time, even if all you have is a couple of hours in the city!
Images: Alex Spodyneiko
AUCKLAND ART GALLERY TOI O TĀMAKI
If you could only visit one gallery for the rest of your life, this should definitely be Toi O Tāmaki with its collection
of over 17,000 masterpieces ranging from the early 11th Century, including one of the only two Picassos in New Zealand, to the ones literally created yesterday. It’s one of those galleries that can easily become a full-day experience, though if you’re short on time, focusing on just one of the permanent or temporary exhibitions is also an option. Lots of special events, meet-ups with artists and workshops throughout the year will make your visit even more memorable. No two days are the same here!
TE URU WAITĀKERE CONTEMPORARY GALLERY
The bright-green building in Titirangi Village, Auckland, with barely any windows to peek inside, was created by the same architect group as Tauranga Art Gallery, so expect loads of glass, concrete and impressive staircases.
The gallery consists of bright spacious rooms hosting contemporary art, and focuses on a hands-on experience with its many workshops and events, as well as The Learning Centre Pokapu Akoranga, for people of all ages, experiences and abilities. While many galleries celebrate the talents of the past, Te Uru is focused on the future and change.
It boasts the most epic views of Waitākere mountain range. Browsing this place is like being in a relaxing luxurious resort only a few streets away from the familiar buzz of Auckland.
GOVETT-BREWSTER ART GALLERY | LEN LYE CENTRE
Proclaimed ‘New Zealand’s most courageous contemporary art museum’, New Plymouth’s Govett-Brewster Art Gallery | Len Lye Centre is among the most recognisable sights of the entire Taranaki region – right next to Te Rewa Rewa Bridge and the mighty mountain itself – thanks to the fascinating mirror-like facade by local architect Terry Boon.
While the double name might confuse some people, it’s actually easily explained. The massive building is divided into two independent spaces: Len Lye Centre, which, as its name states, is devoted entirely to one artist – kinetic sculptor, poet, painter and filmmaker Len Lye; and internationally recognised contemporary Govett-Brewster Art Gallery, which hosts various temporary exhibitions.
CITY GALLERY WELLINGTON
Wellington’s entire city centre is like one endless art gallery. All you need to do is take a few steps and you’re entering
a new door to yet another unique space, filled to the brim with upcoming or established artists both local and international.
Since this article is all about grand experiences though, your Wellington trip should definitely include the City Gallery. Historic on the outside, the building at the Te Ngākau Civic Square is home for the bravest, brightest examples of New Zealand modern art. ‘Exhibitions with an edge’ is how gallery employees describe their space. They encourage visitors to push boundaries, ask questions, debate and challenge themselves.
CHRISTCHURCH ART GALLERY TE PUNA O WAIWHETŪ
The first glimpse of the majestic glass and metal building of this public gallery – and you’re transferred into an entirely different reality. Its flowing form evoking both the koru and the local Avon River wouldn’t appear out of place on the streets of Manhattan or any other megalopolis adorned in skyscrapers, high-end boutiques and traffic jams. But it’s right here in the heart of Christchurch, next to its renowned historic architecture, quirky cafes and tranquil little parks. Inside are nine exhibition areas, sprawled across two floors, as well as conference and workshop rooms, restaurant and souvenir store. From the breathtaking masterpieces of the 18th Century to contemporary photography, from traditional Māori arts to, often confusing, yet mesmerising experiments that are twisting and bending art as we know it – Christchurch art gallery is a journey through time, space and creative mediums.
DUNEDIN PUBLIC ART GALLERY
Established in 1884 it’s the oldest art gallery in the country, known for its extensive collection of New Zealand artists and especially Dunedin-born Frances Hodgkins, who was at the forefront of Britain’s Neo-Romantic movement and whose father founded the gallery.
The gallery is also a must-visit destination for lovers of historic European art. On the ground floor you’ll find paintings by Zanobi Machiavelli, Claude Lorrain, Salvator Rosa, Claude Monet, Camille Pissarro and other artists from as early as 15th Century. Colourful rooms hosting the collection of over 200 works form a little labyrinth that won’t have you lost literally but definitely lost in art and talents of the past.
Take some time to admire the Donaghys foyer on your way out – this architectural space is stunning when observed from the comfy ottomans on the ground floor.
