300 artists, 4,000 artworks and more than $23 million in art sales since 2004.
Wellington, New Zealand — For more than two decades, King’s Birthday Weekend in Wellington has meant one thing for art lovers — the return of the NZ Art Show.
The NZ Art Show returns to the Wellington waterfront from Friday 29 May to Sunday 31 May, once again filling TSB Arena and Shed 6 with art, artists, and thousands of visitors from across Aotearoa New Zealand.
Now entering its third decade — and held on the Wellington waterfront since 2004 — the NZ Art Show has grown alongside the city itself. Since launching, the event has generated more than $23 million in art sales for New Zealand artists, reinforcing its role as one of the country’s most significant platforms for connecting artists directly with audiences.
Executive Director Carla Russell says the show has become a much-loved annual tradition for both artists and audiences.
“For many people, King’s Birthday Weekend now means a visit to the NZ Art Show,” Russell says.
“It’s a moment when artists from across Aotearoa gather on the waterfront and visitors can experience an incredible diversity of New Zealand art all under one roof.”
Across the long weekend, the NZ Art Show will present:
• 300+ artists from across Aotearoa New Zealand
• 4,000+ original artworks spanning painting, sculpture, photography, print and mixed media
• Opportunities for direct engagement between artists and audiences
• A welcoming environment for both first-time art buyers and experienced collectors
Auckland artist Hollie O’Neill, who has exhibited at the show, says the event holds a special place in the country’s creative calendar.
“A deeply positive experience and a real highlight of my career.”
Each year the show attracts more than 12,000 visitors, creating opportunities for artists to connect directly with audiences while contributing to Wellington’s vibrant cultural and hospitality economy.
The NZ Art Show 2026 runs Friday 29 May – Sunday 31 May, with the Opening Gala on Thursday 28 May, at TSB Arena and Shed 6 on the Wellington Waterfront.
Early Bird tickets are available now.
After more than two decades on the waterfront, the NZ Art Show continues to bring artists and audiences together — making King’s Birthday Weekend in Wellington one of the country’s most vibrant celebrations of New Zealand art.
