Auckland Art Gallery

The fact that it’s FREE admission should be enough reason for you to pay this art gallery a visit. If that still doesn’t entice you to coming here, then know that you’ll find a wide range of artwork here. From paintings to sculptures to a piece of wood lying at the corner of room, you’ll find yourself hoping that you won’t run out of exhibits to see.
My favorite happened to be the moving screen that told the story between the natives of New Zealand and the first settlers. The story also included other Polynesian islands, like Hawaii (which is where we’re from).

It’s been awhile since I’ve been to the art gallery. There’s always something new to see in the way of collections and I love the building. Today, before I even got to look around, I stopped to watch an open air theatrical performance set on two floors of the gallery. The performance was really good, and It was fun watching people’s reactions as they discovered they were walking through the middle of it! We also went outside on the top floor, overlooking Albert Park, a perfect setting for the silent performance by a Maori performer called ‘I am Chief’. Nice touch Auckland Art Gallery. A diverse range of artwork, a beautiful building, a quiet space in the heart of the city and entertainment.

I’m embarrassed to admit that I still haven’t done a full tour of the Auckland Art Gallery, but I did go to an event there last night that was hosted on the first floor atrium and it was absolutely stunning!
Architecturally, I think the art gallery is beautiful. It’s definitely a space that us Aucklander’s proudly show off to out-​of-​towners. Now I just need to go see the whole shebang myself…

Auckland City Art Gallery is an «inspiring visual arts experience.» Agreed. Over four storeys — there is a lot to see. On the ground floor is NZ art & gift shop. The mezzanine floor has the ‘Creative Learning Centre’ which is great for children to be interactive with art — ‘Wavelength’ encourages engagement with people in the digital space. You can take pics of yourself, family and/​or friends and upload onto a live visual feed using Instagram with hashtag #CLCwavelength. Everyone loves instant fame lol! On level 1: Contemporary NZ art, jewellery & international modern art. Also the gallery café resides here that looks over Albert Park: picturesque, just saying. There is more contemporary art on Level 2 and a film auditorium on Lower Ground, which is fab! The space is chic, sophisticated & unpretentious. Entry is free to every floor, for you to explore at your leisure! All staff are very helpful, pleasant & personable. Great memorable experience.

Why aren’t there more free galleries around the world? It is a lot easier to appreciate art and the gallery when you don’t have to pay to get in. This was a great collection of work that kept my attention for a few hours. The gallery seemed to go on for forever as there were many floors and different rooms per floor. Each area had a different category of pieces from local contemporary to classic European. It was a truly vast collection
My favorite part of this museum was the explanations and history surrounding each piece in the gallery. The art didn’t just have a plate explaining the artist and the year it was created. Most pieces had a short story explaining the artists life, the circumstances or world events surrounding the piece, and a short explanation of how the art came into the hands of the Auckland Gallery. They really went above and beyond to make sure visitors get the full story behind their pieces throughout the building. By understanding all of the information about the art, visitors get a much stronger appreciation for what they are experiencing — I know I sure did.
Some tips for visitors: no bags or backpacks, there is a bag check and coat check, free guided tours commence daily from the front desk, there are three floors so make sure you get to them all.

A serene space to while away the hours. This architectural wined houses some of NZ’s most famous paintings and sculptures as well as a series of new exhibitions. Currently showing is light in the dark, an eclectic mix of pieces created with light and shadow. The sculpture terrace could use a bit more colour, but at least the first floor landing has been put to great use as a family friendly environment in which to introduce kids to art. The gift shop is also worth a mention as it has a cool present for everyone (even you).

I had such a wonderful experience exploring the Auckland Art Gallery this July. I love the modern appearance of the building. The art exhibits at the time were very powerful — especially the Aboriginal exhibit. I especially appreciated the classical and modern pieces by New Zealand artists.
The museum is really easy to navigate, and it’s not really big so it’s certainly do-​able in an afternoon. And admission is free! It’s also a cool location — with a nice park located just behind it, the uni within a block or two, and just a few blocks walk down to the waterfront. You must stop by and explore if you’re in Auckland.

Schönes Gebäude, direkt am Albert Park. In der Architektur verschwimmt der moderne Teil super mit dem alten Teil. Mir haben besonders die japanischen Bilder und die neuseeländische Kunst gefallen. Die ganz modernen Bilder sind da etwas abgeschlagen. Trotzdem lohnt sich der Besuch, besonders, da die normale Ausstellung kostenfrei ist. Highlight für mich war ein Ausstellungsstück mit einem langen Tisch und vielen, vielen weißen Legosteinen, mit denen man als Besucher rumspielen konnte und Gebäude bauen durfte.

After being refurbished recently, Auckland Art Gallery has made a strong comeback.
* Free entrance (except for paid exhibitions)
* Beautiful spacious minimalistic spatial design/​layouts
* Various kinds of art (maori, contemporary, japanese, victorian, photography, etc.)
* A regular change of artworks on display (every few months the artworks on display would be changed)
* Every artwork has a clear description of the name, who made it, what material was used and the background of it
* The paid exhibitions are affordable (I’ve never seen it more than $ 15), and.
* The curators have heaps of fully explained answers for all of my odd questions and all of the staff members are very kind.
They have lots of facilities for kids too, such as a reading section with beanbags, and a room for drawing (part of a project) and sometimes when there is an exhibition there will be some freebies for kids to make such as paper masks, etc.
Also, the building has beautiful architecture — I feel like the building is a piece of art too.

When reviewing an art gallery should a person focus on the building or the art itself?
If I’m to focus on the building, then I must say that Auckland Art Gallery is exquisite. The inside is spotlessly clean and quiet with art sparesly placed on the walls. The building detracts in no way from the art on view, allowing a person to focus on the work in front of them without distraction.
The layout of the building is in such a way that you can easily walk around and you don’t need to backtrack upon yourself too much to see any pieces that you may have missed. The staff are kind and helpful and always willing to give information and advice.
On the subject of the art, well, that’s something that will always be subjective. The gallery offers a range of art pieces in varying styles from various points in New Zealand art history. The art is collected into different eras making it easy to find the type of art you like.
Personally, I wasn’t too fond of the ground floor collection which is mostly art from the modern era. In other words lots of art that you see and wonder «What the heck am I looking at?» or «This is art?! I could make this shit!»
As you wander upstairs the art becomes more classical with portraits and landscapes. Paintings where you can actually tell what you’re looking at. Way more to my tastes.
If you’re the average person then this gallery may be for you. It’s free so you wont feel too bad if you don’t like the art and it offers a range of pieces for all tastes. The collections may not be the best in the world, but then the majority of us uncultured plebs would know what the best is.
Simply pretend this is the best art in the world and you’ll have a good time I’m sure.

Un chouette endroit pour flaner et admirer de belles collections. Parfait pour recuperer de l’etat de jetlag you know ! L’endroit recemment renove vaut le coup d’oeil, un excellent mélange d’architecture victorienne et moderne. Quelques clins d’oeil a l’art maori dans certaines decorations. Mais sinon niveau collections ca manqué d’oeuvres maories, les seuls exposees retracant quasi uniquement la revolte maorie a travers l’art contemporain du peuple autochtone de la nouvelle zelande. J’en ai tout autant appris grace a une exposition a Bordeaux au musee d’Aquitaine sur l’art aborigene et aui traitait aussi des maoris …
Le complexe est bien surtout quand il fait chaud pour se promener aux alentours avant de repartir dans l’enfer urbain de Queen St.

The building that houses the museum was not that obvious from the outside. I think it’s attached to the public library as well.
Although not large, the museum does have good representation various styles. The modern art section seems to be one of the largest and features works that just borders on weird. I’m not gonna lie; I’m not a huge fan of it. On one wall there were two rows of what looked to be finger-​paintings by second graders because most of the paint appeared smeared on. Another exhibit was a bunch of tires nailed to a post. The strangest were definitely the videos, the first of which was of a naked woman exercising and stretching on her front porch. The second video had a man drinking water from bottles he picked off the ground of a parking lot and then spitting it out. Weird, for sure.
Best part of the deal was the free admission!

My visit to this place has been long overdue. I’ve always wanted to go here as it has been highly recommended by I think everyone else I know who’s been here. I was still a bit hesitant then because although I enjoy art I am by no means an artist. So before I went with some friends, I looked up the reviews of trustee Unilocalers and seems like no one has regretted spending their time here.
WOW! It was a great experience, even if you’re not an artist you will enjoy it! it’s such a grand place and very relaxed. The staff are very helpful without being too eagle eyed on you.
The only thing I would suggest coming from someone who doesn’t have any sense of direction is to have maps showing where you are at the moment. But then again I guess that’s one of the joys of it. being lost and immersed in art.

This gallery is truly a credit to Auckland. The recent refurbishment has resulted in a slick upgrade of a very old Renaissance building. Big airy spaces, floor to ceiling windows that really open up areas of the gallery.
The permanent exhibits are very impressive — lots of history where the art ranges from Maori portraits to contemporary New Zealand art including an awe inspiring Hotere that spans 18 metres.
Now that the Auckland Art Gallery is of more international standards it’s getting some much more exciting exhibitions like «Who shot Rock and Roll» and at the moment «California Design 1930−1965» is on which show cases the fabulous designs to come out of that area in furniture, design, textiles, architecture and fashion. My favorite is the Charles Eames elephant.
Tip — there’s usually extra-​curricular activities. California Design is also showing Mike Nichols’ «The Graduate» and Tom Ford’s «A Single Man» in the weekends.
Fabulous place to take out of towners, parents and partners — make it a cultural day and check out the museum too!

i am obsessed with museum stores. with toi o tamaki’s being no exception.
hello, funky little trinket, fun art memorabilia and that unique gift i never even knew i was looking for, nice to see you.
shopping aside, this is an awesome spot. three reasons why:
1. the space — gorgeous architecture, large airy rooms which fill with natural light (on those non-​rainy auckland days, of course!), and windows giving you a peek into the greenery of albert park.
2. the price — free!* (self-​explanatory)
3. always something interesting — i.e. the whole reason for this place — ART. they have some great pieces here and i always find the exhibits really intriguing. for example, they currently have an exhibition looking into urban living which includes everything from a short chinese video highlighting the clash of rural and urban to a setup of a disheveled living area with all the traces of human life.
the art gallery is also very child-​friendly (i particularly love the creative learning center — a hands-​on space where kids can engage in art)
*i hate fine print, too. but you should know they *do* charge for special exhibitions (but that doesn’t mean you can’t just check out the really awesome free exhibits!)

When I first moved to Auckland I really really hated the whole friggen city. One of major bummers was the fact that the city’s central and focal art gallery was a piece of crap. It was cramped and little and architecturally uninspired. Needless to say, I’m extremely happy with this ‘new’ incarnation of the Toi o Tamaki, Auckland Art Gallery. It’s simply magnificent. The permanent collection is stacked with New Zealand artists of cultural and historical significance and runs the gambit from archaic oils through vibrant conceptual and kinetic work. The place offers a great opportunity for and Aotearoan art education. Hell, it’s worth a trip for the resplendent building alone. It’s bloody glorious. Go there and have a nice time.

Auckland Art Gallery
For a date with a twist or meeting with a friend — why not head to the contemporary Auckland Art Gallery on the corner of Kitchener Street and Wellesley Street. You can mosey around for free and look at most art displays. An extra charge applies for special exhibits, although there is plenty to look at for free. Of particular interest are the exhibits from the late local artist, Charles Goldie, famous for his portrayal of Maori dignatries. Free gallery tours start daily at the main entrance at 11.30 and 1.30pm and last 1 hour. Open daily 10am-​5pm
Visit the website for a calendar of events. www. aucklandartgallery

Upon learning of Ralph Hotere’s death the other day (one of New Zealand’s most influential artists), I thought I would head into the Auckland Art Gallery to check out some of his work and mark the occasion as such. I have been living in Auckland for about 5 months now, and have been remiss in not checking this place out. The artwork itself is housed in a rather remarkable building architecture wise. Big airy spaces really make the art stand out. The ‘hush’ in here really contributes to being able to enjoy viewing the artworks, and gives you some space to ruminate and the air con on a boiling summers afternoon certainly wasn’t to be sniffed at either.
If you are from overseas the room of New Zealand artists and their works is really worth a look. At the moment there is a massive hanging of one of Hotere’s works which is pretty magnificent but I think this specific hanging area is subject to change .
Also while I was there I checked out the ‘Who shot Rock and Roll’ exhibition while it is in town and which people have been raving about and LOVED IT. The special exhibitions that are being held at certain times usually broadcast on the art gallerys website so make sure to check that out before you come in.

Nestled under the overhanging trees of Albert Park, the recently refurbished Art gallery is a gem in Auckland’s crown. It’s easy to get lost in here, both within the art and within the space.
There are a number of seperate areas, ranging from traditional realist art right through to confrontational modern day video works. They offer a main exhibition that changes approximately every six months, the «who shot rock and roll» exhibition which is on at the moment (not for long) is well worth a look.
The gallery itself is free to enter, with a charge for the main exhibition and a suggestion for a donation. It’s a great place to go on a rainy day in Auckland when you want some peace and quiet.

The art gallery opened in 1884 and the architecture of the original building makes it a worthwhile visit on its own. Constructed in a Renaissance/​French renaissance style, the building has recently been restored and extended and looks fantastic.
The gallery is open seven days a week and over school holiday periods accommodates kids by having special art and craft programmes, while offering adults a strong coffee or refreshing drink at the café.
The gallery is on par with big overseas galleries, and the exhibitions that are now held there are outstanding. I spent the entire morning with my Mum wandering around the Who Shot Rock and Roll exhibition, and by the end of it all I could think about was pursuing photography. Completely inspiring.
Whether an international exhibition is on or not, the art gallery is a ‘must see’ for anyone in Auckland, and with general admission to the gallery being free, there really is no excuse for not checking it out.

Love the new look, architecturally it is a very interesting building. The art collection wasn’t as big as I expected as it boasts to be the largest in the North Island. I have been to a lot of art galleries in my time and I guess relative to what I have seen I was expecting just a little bit more in size and ‘bedazzle’ from Auckland’s largest gallery. I was however, super happy to see two original paintings by the late Edmund Blair Leighton, one of my favourite artists.

Auckland’s main art gallery; the permanent collecting is worth checking out for the Maori portraits and Contemporary art section, which provides some interesting insight into New Zealand’s history (if you’re into that kinda thing). You should definitely check what special exhibits are being held via the website as most of the main international travelling shows will come here.
The building itself has been revamped and looks fantastic now. They’re left windows in the ground and walls exposing parts of the original gallery that I really like. The integration between old to new has been really well done in my opinion.
Great for all ages; let the kids run round the sculpture garden then head over to Albert Park for a picnic.