Auckland Art Gallery
Auckland Art Gallery things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
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Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki stands as a testament to New Zealand’s rich artistic heritage and its dynamic contemporary scene. As the nation’s largest art institution, it boasts a collection exceeding 15,000 works, seamlessly blending Māori, Pacific, and international art. The architectural brilliance of the gallery is immediately striking. A harmonious fusion of restored historical structures with sleek modern design, the building itself is a masterpiece. Visitors frequently commend the light-filled, airy rooms that provide an inviting ambiance for art appreciation. Beyond its permanent collection, the gallery is renowned for its rotating exhibitions that captivate both locals and tourists alike. Many visitors have lauded the gallery’s dedication to showcasing Māori heritage, with entire floors thoughtfully curated to celebrate indigenous artistry. The staff’s warmth and expertise further enhance the visitor experience. Guests often highlight the insightful guided tours and educational programs that offer deeper context to the artworks on display. Situated at the intersection of Kitchener and Wellesley Streets, the gallery’s central location makes it an accessible cultural hub for both spontaneous visits and planned excursions. Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki is more than just a repository of art; it’s a vibrant cultural epicenter that reflects the diverse narratives of Aotearoa and beyond. A must visit if you are around.
Dr Juan F Martínez-Canca
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It’s such a great thing that the gallery provides access to art for everybody through free entries. The exhibitions are great. I especially enjoyed the Walters Prize 2024 exhibition, where the work of four artists who’ve been nominated for the prize. Their works are amazing! What I see as more critical is “The Robertson Gift” exhibition, where the art from a New York ‘philanthropist’ couple is shown. It is definitely great, that the general public has now access to its impressive collection and I understand that the museum has no other option than to show its gratitude for this gift. But the circumstances underlying this are fundamentally wrong. Art with cultural significance belongs to the public and it shouldn't be on the ultra-rich to decide where and if it is shown publicly. A strong democracy should be able to democratize access to culture. Ownership entails obligations. We should not have to be grateful that billionaires fund the arts and provide their collections to the public when their wealth is taken from the public, to begin with. Nonetheless, thanks to the great work of the curators and museum staff that are behind these brilliant exhibitions.
Paul-Nikos Günther
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It is a visually enriching and culturally enlightening experience for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Located in the heart of Auckland's city center, the gallery is housed in a beautiful building that blends historical architecture with modern design. As the largest art institution in New Zealand, it boasts a vast collection of over 16,000 works, including national and international pieces that span from the 11th century to the present day. The gallery showcases a diverse array of exhibitions featuring historic, modern, and contemporary art, with a special emphasis on New Zealand and Pacific Island artists. Highlights include Maori and Pacific Island works, along with European painting and sculpture. The gallery also offers interactive and educational programs, making art accessible to all ages. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, artist talks, and workshops that enhance their understanding and appreciation of art. The Auckland Art Gallery is not just a place to view art; it's a dynamic cultural hub where art, history, and community converge, offering a unique and memorable experience in the heart of Auckland.
Victor Leung
00
I literally Googled the night before to find out what was happening in the CBD for Matariki and saw that the gallery had a full day of workshops, performances, and events so popped in during Matariki to watch a couple of the scheduled performances and to attend the workshop on making a poi from fabric scraps. I live in the CBD but I've never really felt very connected to the gallery but after this experience I'll be visiting more frequently for sure. All the events were free which was really great. I was however expecting more food options - was hoping that The Hangi Shop was going have a food truck on site - hangi for lunch would've been the perfect end to my time at the gallery. I also attended Estrella this month (also for Matariki and also free) and I'm so glad I did. It was an absolute treat to experience the stunning performances. The music was just beautiful. I hope there will be more events just like this at the gallery this year. Coat check service is great and staff members are friendly and helpful!
Rachel Spencer
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A beautifully sized gallery in Auckland, perfectly situated next to popular Albert Park, making it even more inviting. Any gallery requiring more than two hours to peruse can be overwhelming - this is what makes AAG ideal. The free admission for all sets a wonderful precedent, ensuring admirable accessibility. The Māori portrait exhibition at Auckland Art Gallery is truly remarkable, most powerful and elegant. The works - especially those by Gottfried Lindauer and Charles Goldie - offer an invaluable glimpse into Māori heritage, capturing not just the physical likeness but also the mana (spiritual presence) of the subjects. The level of detail and respect in these portraits makes them especially moving. The loveliest way to conclude a visit to the gallery is to have coffee and cake on the terrace of the cafe that overlooks Albert Park. A visit to AAG is highly recommended if you have 2-3 hours to spare.
eddie chan
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I went to the Auckland Art Gallery in the hope of being blown away by some innovative, original, and engaging contemporary art. Sadly that didn’t happen. At least the place wasn’t stuffed with yet more examples of the global brand artists’ works which many national institutions feel obliged to show. Having said that the American sculptor George Rickey’s ‘Double L Excentric Gyratory, 1985’ is great to watch from a table in the cafe. But most of what was there seemed derivative and lacking in powerful NZ voices. And for such a big building the actual space dedicated to contemporary art seemed rather small. I fear AAG may suffer the ‘Tate Modern Extension Syndrome’. The symptoms include educational/community/administration spaces which could easily be sited in a cheaper building elsewhere.
Hamish Pringle
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Nearby Attractions Of Auckland Art Gallery
Sky Tower
Aotea Square
Cordis, Auckland
Albert Park
SkyCity Auckland
SkyCity Auckland
The Civic
Event Cinemas Queen Street
Waitemata (Britomart) Train Station
Pullman Auckland Hotel & Apartments

Sky Tower
4.6
(7.5K)
Click for details

Aotea Square
4.4
(2.9K)
Click for details

Cordis, Auckland
4.5
(1.9K)
Click for details

Albert Park
4.6
(2.1K)
Click for details
Nearby Restaurants Of Auckland Art Gallery
Dr Rudi's Rooftop Brewing Co.
The Occidental
Elliott Stables
Headquarters
Tony's Original Steak & Seafood Restaurant
Oyster and Chop
Soul Bar & Bistro
Starbucks 220 Queen St
Federal Delicatessen
1947 eatery

Dr Rudi's Rooftop Brewing Co.
4.3
(1.6K)
$$
Click for details

The Occidental
4.4
(1.6K)
Click for details

Elliott Stables
4.4
(1.4K)
Click for details

Headquarters
4.1
(1.5K)
$$
Click for details
Basic Info
Address
Wellesley Street East, Auckland Central, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Map
Phone
+64 9 379 1349
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Website
aucklandartgallery.com
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Reviews
Overview
4.6
(2.7K reviews)
Ratings & Description
cultural
accessibility
Description
Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki is the principal public gallery in Auckland, New Zealand. It has the most extensive collection of national and international art in New Zealand and frequently hosts travelling international exhibitions.
attractions: Sky Tower, Aotea Square, Cordis, Auckland, Albert Park, SkyCity Auckland, SkyCity Auckland, The Civic, Event Cinemas Queen Street, Waitemata (Britomart) Train Station, Pullman Auckland Hotel & Apartments, restaurants: Dr Rudi's Rooftop Brewing Co., The Occidental, Elliott Stables, Headquarters, Tony's Original Steak & Seafood Restaurant, Oyster and Chop, Soul Bar & Bistro, Starbucks 220 Queen St, Federal Delicatessen, 1947 eatery

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