Auckland Art Gallery

Auckland Art Gallery – Where art breathes and the soul listens Stepping into the Auckland Art Gallery feels like crossing into another realm — from the noise of the city into a sanctuary of silence, color, and emotion. You’re never quite prepared for what happens inside. The walls, lined with works that speak every language of the human heart, seem to whisper stories from other times, other eyes, other worlds. Each gallery is its own universe. From powerful Māori portraits to bold contemporary pieces, everything invites you to look deeper — not just at the art, but within yourself. The building itself is a masterpiece: elegant, open, and light-filled. With soaring wooden columns like trees and rooftops that stretch toward the sky, it feels like a cathedral devoted to creativity. A place to feel, reflect, and be transformed. Because here, you don’t just see art — you experience it. 🎨🖼️✨

A must visit for art lovers and cultural explorers - it’s free entry! So have a go at it! It’s nestled beside Albert Park and is architectural gem with a modern design. The gallery has multiple curated collections across various floors, showcasing both Māori and Pacific Island art alongside European and contemporary international works. I was quite impressed by the diverse exhibitions, ranging from traditional New Zealand art to provocative modern installations and audio-visual content. The representation of indigenous perspectives is especially commendable. Facilities are good, has a café, a gift shop on the ground floor, and friendly, knowledgeable staff.

There are two parts to the gallery: one is free and open to the public, where you can walk through and enjoy a range of beautiful artworks. The second part is a ticketed exhibition (A Century of Modern Art), which costs $29 for residents and has timed entry every 15 minutes. The paid exhibition is absolutely worth it – it’s so special to see masterpieces by Monet, Picasso, Van Gogh and many more up close. The Van Gogh painting in particular was breathtaking. Seeing it in person was unforgettable – I just couldn’t look away. Highly recommend visiting if you’re in Auckland – a rare and inspiring exhibition!

What a lovely art gallery in the city center of Auckland. There is quite a lot of unique and diverse art to be seen. Super nice that they actually grant you free entry to this beautiful gallery. Just a short walk from CBD to come here. Lovely store as well with unique gifts.

Really well put together gallery that is completely free. Fabulous. Definitely worth a stop on your Auckland itinerary. The Coastlines exhibition was great, as is the modernist collection upstairs. Don't miss the great shop for fun gifts and souvenirs.

Free admission, cool art pieces, spacious, clean, and they have a cafe! I love the collection of Māori culture incorporated within this gallery.

the exhibition was awesome and the art gallery as always a highlight in itself. The only thing that was a bit scary was the guy outside of the cafe who decided to put up his camp behind the art gallery and would keep staring at us angrily.

Free entrance to the art gallery! They’re currently showcasing A Century of Modern Art exhibition, featuring many notable artists like Monet, Matisse, and Dali. Would definitely come back again!

A beautiful art gallery in Auckland that is free to visit (apart from any specific ticketed displays). There are many different displays, ranging across history, art styles and mediums, and cultures. So much to see! The gallery is beautiful and the surrounding area is truly breathtaking. After you visit, take a stroll around Albert Park or step into one of the local shops and cafes. The staff is kind and helpful, and there is also a cafe and gift shop to explore while you're there. A great museum to explore in Auckland and enrich yourself in art and culture!

The Auckland Art Gallery is a must visit, FREE museum right next to a very lovely park. This museum is some 4-5 floors (kinda hard to tell due to the architecture, which is actually cool) full of exhibits. There were a lot of tribal artifacts and history about the native New Zeaanders. Plus the contemporary art was interesting and unique. On the way out I also passed by the museum shop and purchased a neat fidget spinner. Good times.

A delightful museum with a balanced and beautifully presented collection. We were lucky enough to visit the same day a community choir was having a concert in the atrium which made the experience even more delightful. The Cafe is a lovely spot for lunch or a coffee.

Auckland Art Gallery is a interesting art museum. Housed in both a historic French Chateau landmark that served as a library and an art gallery opening in 1888 as well as contemporary additions, the art and architecture feature contrasts. The Guo Pei:Fashion, Art, Fantasy is an example of the contrasts showcased at this museum. Guo Pei is known for her extravagant fashions. High end gowns and platform shoes rich with gold embroidery, jewels and exotic fabrics. Worn by the stars and royalty, her designs are visually stunning. Interesting to see these modern masterpieces against old portraits and a bust of a young Napoleon. Interesting to also see the Romancing the Collection exhibit which featured portraits of Māori leaders. This contrasted against a collection of very modern art. Lots of activities available for children on Auckland Day, however many galleries were closed when we visited due to new exhibits being prepared to open. The Auckland Art Gallery is free to visit with the exception of special events. The Auckland Explorer Bus stop for the gallery is located next to Albert Park.

I was all set to be unhappy because I didn't find the sort of art I like and then... BAM! A huge gallery of impressionists and masters. Exactly the sort of art that I love and appreciate and will travel to see. Fernand Léger, Alexander Archipenko, Henri Matisse, Piet Mondrian, Pablo Picasso (multiple!), Paul Cezanne, André Derain. Portraits, still lifes, landscapes, sculptures, just so much beautiful art. Two hours, slowly appreciating the exact sort of art I love. Five stars! [Review 526 of 2024 - 172 in New Zealand - 21558 overall]

Highlight of my day! I had some time to kill in Auckland in between disembarking from a cruise ship and heading to the airport, so I was just walking around the city, slowed down by the luggage I was dragging. I happened upon this museum and went inside, where they were exceedingly welcoming and quick to offer free storage for my luggage. Most of the museum is free! And extensive! The ground floor has a lot of new modern art and a lot that expresses Maori history and perspective. One level up has an impressive collection of pre-21st century classics, including works by multiple artists that are known to the layperson. (The Dalí was my favorite.) There was a special exhibit of Olafur Eliasson going on as I was there and it looked really cool; I would have paid the extra to check it out if I had time. The building itself is fun to explore, with its newer architecture merging with the older Victorian building; the path through the artworks is appealingly disorienting. I wish I'd had more time here; I will definitely return the next time I'm in this great city!

Wow, are we lucky or what?!?! Came on the day of Diwali celebrations. Quality/Quantity - 17,000+ works of art. Today was special. They had performances from the Anuradha's School of Indian Dances. The dancers did such a great job, and so many of them were so young. They also did Rangoli Colouring (hand drawn "tattoos"), but the line was too long. The museum was good and huge also, but many of the floors/exhibits were under construction. I guess we also came during the exhibit turnovers? Cafe available also with indoor and outdoor seating. Gift shop. Atmosphere - Open 7 days a week from 10am to 5pm. Service - Good, free cloak (bag) check. We have learned to take advantage of this, literally taking a load off our shoulders. Price - Free, thank you. Please donate. Owner Comment - Congrats on your success since 1888!

A local gem for the city! The art gallery was showcasing Guo Pei's designs which was absolutely beauitful! The best of all, it's free admission so you can enjoy the art and culture. Definitely a must visit when you're in the city. We had a. Great time spending some time here.

As New Zealand's largest city, Auckland has some amazing museums. The Auckland Art Gallery is located in the CBD just off of Albert Park and the University of Auckland beyond. As of my visit, the exterior was undergoing a renovation, but the inside was open as usual. This is a free museum for all, so it's a great activity if you're visiting and want to see primarily modern art from New Zealand, Australia, Oceania and beyond. There is also a cafe on the mezzanine, perfect to take a break and a seat while overlooking the park and downtown. The information booth at the entrance offers maps and information guides about the exhibits. There are elevators or stairs to get the different floors. Each area is a different featured artist or group, there is plenty to read and learn about the art. Docents were also friendly and eager to answer questions. If you're traveling in Auckland and want a free, educational activity, this is worth the visit. They also have a gift shop on the ground floor with souvenirs, books, and post cards.

Wow - incredible free museum. I would definitely splurge and go for the current exhibit. Guo Pei amazing designs were breathtaking!! Beautiful inside, and a great permanent collection . Very friendly staff

Beautiful galleries with a lot of New Zealand art & a Frida Kahlo Exhibit that we missed. The building is exquisite. I found beautiful gifts in the gorgeous gift shop. This is the most extensive collection of national & international art in New Zealand. This is the first gallery here from 1888, it's next to Albert Park. Originally it housed a national gallery & library, now the new library is across the street. The building is registered as a heritage site. It is constructed of brick & plaster in an early French Renaissance style and was completed in 1887, with an extension built in 1916. It is 3 stories tall with an attic in the steep pitched roofs, and a 6 story lock tower.

So grateful a place like this exists in the heart of the city. As a non-native, it was truly a beautiful experience to be able to see new perspectives and learn a good amount about Māori culture and history through a different lens. Did I mention it's FREE ENTRY? This is the type of art museum you could continue to return to time and time again just to find some peace from the bustling city. Or, just stop into the cafe for a brunch and coffee. They have rotating paid exhibits which appear to be both amazing and a great hit, so if you're looking for the full experience, it'll only cost ~$20-30NZ. The parking around the area isn't amazing, but there is street parking and a parking garage nearby.

Stunning building in beautiful setting. The art experience starts at the door with a vertical 3 storey glass/Perspex waka. Inside the collections are various exhibitions will please everyone. Stunning Maori portraits by Goldie & Lindauer. Installations of light and sound, sculpture, modernist pieces and traditional paintings. As you move through the spaces the modern building blend seamlessly with the spectacular older parts. A great visit - and incredibly it's FREE!

Cool little museum with some interesting exhibits and some local cultural displays. Architecturally interesting building. Free entry except for special showcase exhibits, and free WiFi up to 1GB data per day if you need it. Child friendly area as well where kids can fold origami, cafe on the second level. I enjoyed my visit here-- it's nice to be able to get a little taste of Maori culture and history in the middle of the city.

Definitely worth the time to stop here. While the gallery doesn't have an abundance of spectacular art, the art on display is pleasing to the eye and the space is fantastic. It is a peaceful walk around for about an hour and half and it's a delight to be in this space. We pushed a baby stroller through the gallery and the staff made us feel welcomed. There are 3 floors of art and an additional ground foyer area. Restrooms were cleaned.

This museum is pretty small but right in the middle of downtown so it's a nice spot to escape from the busy city outside. As you would expect, all the art was from New Zealand and the surrounding area. It's free to get in but special exhibits are extra. Also, I would recommend bringing public transportation downtown. We went to the museum for free but ended up paying $30 at a nearby garage to park for a couple hours.

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).

I would definitely go if you're in town. It isn't likely to have the kind of collection you'd find in one of the big-time cities in Europe or the U.S., but for Auckland it's pretty impressive (and they pretty much put it that way themselves). First off, it is free (though there are substantial parts of it set off for paid exhibitions). Second, they say it won a world architecture award, which I'm inclined to believe; the building was nice. Third, the art is worthwhile. I'm not an art critic, but they had an appealing mix of Western and Maori creations (the bicultural nature of this town is interesting). It's a great location, too, embedded in one of the city's numerous hills just at the edge of its downtown area. Last, the tour is also free, and runs almost an hour. Oh, and 1 gig a day of free wifi.

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!

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.

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 enjoy art so thought I'd visit the art gallery with my husband. My initial impression started off well, with the staff member we purchased tickets from who was particularly kind and friendly. The focus at this gallery is on modern art. Full disclosure- not the biggest fan of modern art: although do appreciate the focus on Maori art work. The gallery itself is not my favorite due to, what I perceive to be, mismatched or lacking themes and poor organization. In some of the rooms on the ground level, there is a significant amount of empty space, while the bold artwork of Colin McCahon overtakes one of the rooms and left me feeling claustrophobic. Some sections are a hodgepodge of uncoordinated styles leaving me disappointed for paying $40 for my husband and I to visit. While I love historical art, the historical art section is lacking. Placing a piece from the 1300s next to something from the 1800s with no obvious theme to connect them, is not the best presentation of art. I also found it very challenging to pass guide-led-groups, particularly when guide and participants seemed oblivious of other art patrons. My favorite part of the museum was the Maori portrait gallery- hidden upstairs on level one.. Pros- free WiFi, free gallery tours, approachable docents, lovely historic building, and nice artwork. Opportunities for improvement- I think the gallery could benefit from moving the art around- organizing historical art by common theme and placing the Maori portraits in a more respected and noteworthy position in the gallery.

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 Yelpers 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.

#1 they charge international visitors $20 NZ, free to NZ residents. #2 Beautiful building but the exhibits seem stale, nothing modern

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 cafe. 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.

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.

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 was pleasantly surprised when I visited this gallery. It is a beautifully light and airy space with generous proportions and very well laid out exhibits. The building architecture lends itself to a free flowing wander through the halls. There's Polynesian art and history, which is fascinating. I particularly enjoyed the Classic Art - the pieces are exquisite and I know I will be back to spend more time admiring them. The store has a nice range of art and items. It's a really nice gallery, I'll be back for sure. Thank you.

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...

For a free art gallery, I was very impressed. I showed up about an hour and a half before closing and still had plenty to see. I especially enjoyed learning about Maori history, and one of the video presentations that was offered. I wouldn't exactly call the Auckland Art Gallery a must-see, but it is definitely a nice thing to do if you happen to be strolling in Albert Park or be in the area. It is free, so you can't go wrong there.

This place has changed, thus, so has my opinion about the gallery. I have been living in Auckland for 4 years now, and have seen a handful of pretty good exhits come through, ranging in cultures and genres. I appreciate the diversity. Staff are really helpful and friendly (including one great volunteer who went out of his way to give me, and some other patrons a tour guide on the Mahabharata during Diwali Festival last year). So, five star upgrade to you AAG. Well done!

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.

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.

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.

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

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 cafe 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.

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!)

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.