The Aotearoa Art Fair 2025

Readers following the fair beyond this 2025 edition can now look ahead to Aotearoa Art Fair 2027 at the Viaduct Events Centre. The new guide covers the announced 6–9 May edition and distinguishes Thursday’s sessions from general entry on 7–9 May.

• The Aotearoa Art Fair 2025 transforms Auckland’s Viaduct Events Centre into a vibrant hub of contemporary art from May 1–4, 2025.
• Nestled in the scenic Wynyard Quarter, this premier event showcases over 40 leading galleries from New Zealand, Australia, and the Asia-Pacific region.
• The fair highlights a diverse range of works, from paintings and sculptures to ceramics, prints, and digital art, reflecting the region’s rich cultural tapestry.
• Attracting thousands of local and international visitors, it offers a dynamic platform for collectors, enthusiasts, and newcomers to engage with art.
• A rich program of talks, performances, large-scale installations, and interactive workshops creates an immersive cultural experience.
• The fair’s waterfront setting, surrounded by Auckland’s lively restaurants and bars, enhances its appeal as a cultural and social destination.
• Emphasizing accessibility, it welcomes all, from seasoned collectors to those simply curious about contemporary art.
• Aotearoa Art Fair 2025 solidifies Auckland’s status as a cultural powerhouse in the South Pacific, celebrating creativity and connection.

• Aotearoa Art Fair 2025 runs from May 1–4, 2025, at Viaduct Events Centre, 171 Halsey Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010.
• Operating hours are 11am–7pm on Thursday (VIP preview), 10am–6pm Friday and Saturday, and 10am–5pm on Sunday.
• Over 40 galleries present works by emerging and established artists, including Maori and Pacific Island talents.
• The fair expects around 15,000 visitors, drawn by its vibrant program and waterfront location.

• The Discoveries sector showcases bold new works by emerging artists from the Asia-Pacific region.
• Large-scale sculptures and installations transform the Viaduct Events Centre into an immersive art space.
• The Talks Programme, curated by experts like Natasha Conland, explores trends in contemporary art.
• Live performances by Maori and Pacific artists bring cultural narratives to life.
• Interactive workshops offer hands-on art experiences, perfect for families and enthusiasts.

• Art Assembly, a global leader in art fairs, organizes Aotearoa Art Fair, also managing Sydney Contemporary and Art SG.
• Directed by Sue Waymouth, the fair leverages Art Assembly’s international expertise to elevate its profile.
• A selection committee of prominent gallerists ensures a high-quality, diverse exhibitor lineup.
• Local partnerships with Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki enhance the fair’s cultural impact.

• Explore the main exhibition halls for works by artists like Chris Heaphy and Lisa Reihana.
• Visit the Discoveries sector for innovative pieces by emerging regional talents.
• Attend the Talks Programme for insights from curators and artists on Pacific art trends.
• Experience live performances celebrating Maori and Pacific Island cultural stories.
• Join workshops at the Creative Hub for hands-on art-making with local artists.

• Tickets start at NZ$30 for a day pass, with concessions for students and seniors at NZ$20.
• VIP preview passes for May 1 cost NZ$100, offering early access and exclusive events.
• Purchase tickets online via www.artfair.co.nz or at the venue’s box office during the fair.
• Children under 12 enter free, ensuring a family-friendly experience.

• The Viaduct Events Centre, at 171 Halsey Street, Auckland CBD, is located in the vibrant Wynyard Quarter, accessible by public transport, car, or ferry.
• From Auckland Airport, 22km away, take the SkyBus to Britomart, then a 7-minute City Link Bus to Wynyard Quarter.
• Britomart Transport Centre, Auckland’s main rail hub, is a 22-minute walk or short bus ride from the venue.
• City Link Bus from Britomart or Queen Street stops at Wynyard Quarter, a short walk from the fair.
• Ferries from Waiheke Island or Devonport dock at Downtown Ferry Terminal, a 10-minute walk away.
• Drivers can park at Jellicoe Street Carpark, with free parking for the first hour.
• Pedestrians can stroll 15 minutes from Quay Street, enjoying the picturesque Viaduct Harbour.
• Bike-sharing services like Beam offer stations near Wynyard Quarter for eco-friendly travel.
• The venue is fully accessible, with mobility parking and an elevator serving all floors.
• Use the Auckland Transport Journey Planner app for real-time schedules and seamless navigation.

• Aotearoa Art Fair, originally Auckland Art Fair, began in 2005, showcasing New Zealand’s contemporary art scene.
• Founded by local gallerists, it initially operated at The Cloud, gaining traction as a regional event.
• By 2010, the fair expanded to include Australian galleries, broadening its Asia-Pacific focus.
• The 2015 edition introduced Maori and Pacific Island artists, reflecting Aotearoa’s cultural diversity.
• In 2020, the fair adapted with digital viewing rooms due to global challenges, maintaining its reach.
• Art Assembly acquired the fair in 2024, aligning it with global events like Sydney Contemporary.
• The 2024 fair at The Cloud drew 12,000 visitors, with strong sales across 40 galleries.
• Relocating to Viaduct Events Centre in 2025, the fair enhanced its international profile.
• Over two decades, it has showcased over 1,000 artists, becoming a cultural cornerstone.
• Aotearoa Art Fair 2025 continues to champion regional talent while fostering global connections.

• Aotearoa Art Fair aims to celebrate the diversity of contemporary art from New Zealand, Australia, and the Asia-Pacific.
• It seeks to foster accessibility, welcoming collectors, enthusiasts, and newcomers to engage with art.
• The fair champions emerging artists, providing a platform for innovative voices in the region.
• By showcasing Maori and Pacific Island art, it honors Aotearoa’s cultural heritage and narratives.
• It strives to connect global and local art communities, strengthening Auckland’s cultural landscape.
• The mission is to inspire creativity and dialogue, making art a vibrant, inclusive experience.

• Buy tickets early via www.artfair.co.nz to secure VIP preview access and avoid queues.
• Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the spacious Viaduct Events Centre halls.
• Check the fair’s website for the latest exhibitor list and Talks Programme schedule.
• Bring a notebook to record favorite artists and galleries for future exploration.
• Visit on May 1’s VIP preview for a quieter experience and exclusive purchases.
• Explore nearby Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki for a deeper dive into local art.
• Engage with artists during talks and performances for unique cultural insights.
• Enjoy Wynyard Quarter’s waterfront cafes, like Baduzzi, for a post-fair meal.
• Book accommodation near Wynyard Quarter, like Sofitel Auckland, for easy access.
• Respect the venue’s guidelines by using recycling bins and maintaining a courteous atmosphere.

• Over 100 galleries participating from around the world
• A diverse range of modern and contemporary art, including paintings, sculptures, prints, and photography
• A showcase of emerging and established artists, with a focus on innovative and cutting-edge art practices
• A series of talks, tours, and events, including artist interviews, panel discussions, and curator-led tours
• A unique opportunity to discover new artists, galleries, and art trends, and to purchase art at affordable prices