Step inside the NZ Art Show

Plan your visit

200+ NZ artists | 4,000 artworks

29 – 31 May 2026
TSB Arena & Shed 6, Wellington

Get Tickets

Come to the Gala

Our vision is for every New Zealander to own an original New Zealand artwork.

For one evening and three unforgettable days each May, Wellington’s waterfront becomes a celebration of New Zealand art. Explore thousands of original works, meet the artists behind them, and discover creativity from every corner of Aotearoa. Whether you’re beginning your collection or are a lifelong enthusiast, the NZ Art Show offers something to inspire.

200+

artists

4,000

artworks

3 days

and an opening Gala night

2

waterfront venues

Where art, people & city come together

VENUE & ACCESS

TSB Arena & Shed 6
Wellington

The NZ Art Show is a vibrant welcoming space all on one level.

Just a short stroll from Lambton Quay, Cuba Street, and Courtenay Place. Parking is available beneath the venue and on surrounding streets.

• Option to pick up purchased art later & courier services
• Full accessibility for wheelchairs and prams
• Onsite info, cafe, and meet-the-artist opportunitiesSecure your tickets to Aotearoa’s premier weekend of original art.

THE EXPERIENCE

Discover. Connect. Collect.

Wander through a vibrant exhibition of original artworks and meet the artists behind them. The TSB Arena and Shed 6 are connected by a light-filled atrium — be sure to explore both spaces as you discover the show.

The list of 2026 exhibiting artists will be shared soon.

GET TICKETS

SUPPORT THE NZ ART SHOW

The NZ Art Show is managed by a charitable trust supporting artists since 2004.

VIP Day –Thursday 28 May

Our way of thanking those who support the NZ Art Show.

VIP Morning 11am – 1pm
Sponsors and Friends enjoy the first viewing of the exhibition — a relaxed start before the public opening.

The Gala from 6pm
The Gala is Wellington’s signature art party, welcoming 1,200 guests to celebrate art, artists, and the opening of the Show.

PARTNER WITH US

BECOME A FRIEND

Discover the Feature Zones

Across the NZ Art Show you’ll find curated spaces that highlight different aspects of Aotearoa’s creative community — from sculpture and photography to emerging artists and urban expression.

The Shutter Space

Photography and lens-based art presented in collaboration with Glasslines and Artglass.

Te Reanga Toi Hou

Emerging contemporary Toi Māori voices.

Featuring tauira from Toi Rauwhārangi, Massey University, celebrating the next generation of Māori artists supported by the NZ Visual Arts Trust.

Next Generation Artists

A platform supporting emerging artists as they begin their professional journeys supported by Brendan Foot Supersite.

The Curators Circle

Brought to you by Wild Ideas.

A curated collection of standout works selected by Carla Russell and Claire Cairns, highlighting pieces that capture the spirit and diversity of contemporary New Zealand art.

Urban Relics – The Imperfect Grid

An immersive installation by Glen Jorna, transforming reclaimed urban materials into striking contemporary artworks that explore memory, place, and the beauty of the overlooked.

The People’s Choice Art Award

Have your say. Visitors are invited to vote for their favourite artwork, with the winning artist announced after the show. The $3,000 artist prize is sponsored by Brendan Foot Supersite.

Sculpture Showcase

A dedicated space celebrating three-dimensional work, supported by the RT Nelson Foundation.

Art is a Lifesaver

Art is a Lifesaver is a special collaborative work by Ellie Compton and Clint C, created to support Maranui Surf Lifesaving Club.

100% of the proceeds from the sale of this artwork will go directly to the club, helping them continue their vital work keeping our beaches safe.

Bidding will open online soon — a unique opportunity to own an original piece of art while supporting a meaningful local cause.

Chill out zones

Relax and recharge in comfortable lounge spaces created by Furniture by Design, thoughtfully placed throughout the show.

Experiences & Events

Beyond the exhibition, the NZ Art Show includes a series of special moments that bring people together to celebrate art, creativity, and community.

VIP Morning
Thursday 28 May | 11am – 1pm
Sponsors and Friends enjoy the first viewing of the exhibition — a relaxed start before the show opens to the public.

The Gala
Thursday 28 May | From 6pm
Wellington’s signature art party, welcoming over 1,200 guests to celebrate art, artists, and the opening of the show – exclusive to sponsors and friends and their invited guests.

BECOME A FRIEND

Summerset Seniors Morning
Friday 29 May | 9am – 11am
A relaxed early opening designed especially for older visitors. Enjoy a calm viewing of the show before general admission begins, with more space to explore the art and connect with the artists.

Women of Pōneke Evening
Saturday 30 May | From 6.30pm
An inspiring evening celebrating connection, creativity, and the power of women supporting women in arts, leadership, and community.

GET TICKETS

Since 2004, the event has played a key role in shaping the art market in Aotearoa. Proudly managed by a Charitable Trust, all profits are reinvested into the arts community, supporting creativity at every level.