Auckland Art Gallery

Can you imagine a chandelier made of flowers? Here at the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, that’s not a fantasy, but a vibrant reality. Choi Jeong Hwa’s “Flower Chandelier” greets you with a burst of color and form. It’s a fitting welcome to New Zealand’s largest visual arts experience. The Auckland Art Gallery sits at the edge of Albert Park, a tranquil oasis amidst the city’s buzz. Founded in 1888 thanks to the generosity of Sir George Grey, the Auckland Art Gallery initially shared its space with the Auckland Free Public Library. The gallery’s collection began with Grey’s donation, heavily focused on European and British art. Over the years, the gallery has grown exponentially. Now boasting nearly 17,000 artworks, the Auckland Art Gallery proudly showcases a vast collection of New Zealand historic, modern, and contemporary art. The collection tells a visual story of New Zealand, from the first encounters between Māori and European explorers to the present day. Works by Māori and Pacific artists are prominently featured, reflecting the country’s rich cultural heritage. The gallery’s international collection also connects Aotearoa New Zealand with the wider world, spanning diverse artistic movements and mediums. Auckland Art Gallery isn’t just about paintings and sculptures. The collection extends to prints and even a 10th-12th century sandstone figure from a Hindu temple in North India. From ancient artifacts to modern masterpieces, the Auckland Art Gallery offers something for everyone. And after your artistic journey, you can relax at the gallery’s terrace café or browse the design store for a unique memento of your visit. Free for New Zealand residents and open daily (except Christmas), the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki invites you to explore its treasures.