The NZ Art Show 2026 stands as Aotearoa?s premier annual celebration of contemporary art, bringing together over 300 artists and more than 4,000 original artworks in the heart of Wellington . Held from May 29 to 31, 2026, across the iconic TSB Arena and Shed 6, this 22nd edition transforms the waterfront into a vibrant hub for art lovers, collectors, and curious visitors. Showcasing a diverse range of mediums?paintings, sculptures, photography, prints, and mixed media?the fair champions both emerging talents and established names from every region of New Zealand. With a welcoming atmosphere, it offers opportunities to meet artists, explore innovative works, and purchase pieces ranging from affordable to investment-grade . The event fosters a deep connection between creators and audiences, emphasizing accessibility and community engagement. Expect curated sections like the Emerging Artists showcase and the Hyundai Emerging Artist Awards, alongside dynamic talks and live demonstrations. As a cornerstone of Wellington?s cultural calendar, it draws over 15,000 attendees annually, contributing significantly to the local art market. This year?s focus on fresh, thoughtfully created works promises an inspiring experience for all .
Quick Facts
- Dates: May 29?31, 2026 (King?s Birthday weekend), with VIP preview on May 2 .
- Location: TSB Arena and Shed 6, Wellington Waterfront, New Zealand .
- Organizer: NZ Art Show Charitable Trust, led by Chair Anne Stephenson.
- Founded: 2004, a key fixture in Aotearoa?s art scene.
- Visitor Numbers (2025): Over 15,000, reflecting widespread appeal.
- Presented By: Partners including Hyundai and TSB, supporting local creativity.
Highlights
- Emerging Artists Showcase: Spotlights new talents at Shed 6, celebrating innovation .
- Hyundai Emerging Artist Awards: Recognizes outstanding young creatives with prizes and exposure.
- Sculptural Showcase: Features striking 3D works, from abstract to traditional forms.
- Live Demonstrations: Watch artists create in real-time, offering insights into their process .
- Guest Galleries: Includes spaces like Space Studio and New Zealand Glassworks for unique presentations.
- VIP Events: Offers exclusive evenings with live music, wine, and art sales .
Organizer
- The NZ Art Show Charitable Trust governs the event, reinvesting all profits into Aotearoa?s arts community .
- Chaired by Anne Stephenson, with trustees David Foot, Frances Russell, Jane Hart, and Neil Paviour-Smith, the team ensures curatorial excellence.
- The Trust collaborates with sponsors like Hyundai to support awards and artist initiatives.
- A rigorous selection process ensures high-quality, original works exclusive to the show.
What to Attend
- Main Exhibition: Explore thousands of artworks across painting, sculpture, and photography .
- Emerging Artists Section: Discover fresh voices at Shed 6, perfect for new collectors.
- Sculpture Displays: Admire innovative 3D pieces that redefine space and form .
- Artist Talks: Engage with creators sharing stories behind their works.
- Live Demonstrations: Witness techniques like glassblowing or painting in action.
- VIP Evenings: Enjoy exclusive access with entertainment and networking opportunities .
Ticket Information
- Early Bird Tickets: From NZD 15, available from October 1, 2025, via the official website .
- General Admission: Expected at NZD 20 for single-day entry, NZD 35 for multi-day passes.
- Concessions: Discounts for students and seniors at NZD 12, with free entry for under 12s.
- VIP Preview Pass: Around NZD 50 for May 2 , including wine, nibbles, and early art access.
- Online Booking: Recommended via artshow.co.nz to skip queues and secure deals.
- Group Rates: Special offers for groups of 10, contact organizers for details .
Getting There
- Location: TSB Arena and Shed 6, situated on Wellington?s vibrant waterfront at 4 Queens Wharf, near Lambton Quay .
- By Bus: Wellington?s Metlink buses (routes 1, 3, 14) stop at Queens Wharf, a 2-minute walk away.
- By Train: From Wellington Station, it?s a 10-minute walk along the waterfront promenade.
- By Ferry: Interislander or Bluebridge ferries dock at Wellington Port, a 15-minute walk or 5-minute taxi.
- By Car: Drive via Jervois Quay; parking is available at Wilson Parking (NZD 15?25/day), with limited spots.
- From Wellington Airport: Take Airport Flyer bus (route 91) to Queens Wharf (20 minutes) or a taxi for NZD 30?40.
- Accessibility: Both venues offer ramps, elevators, and wheelchair-friendly paths for inclusivity.
- Eco-Friendly Options: Cycle along the waterfront or use e-scooters from nearby hubs for a green approach.
- Parking Tips: Book parking in advance via Parkopedia for convenience, especially during peak hours.
- Navigation: Use the venue map on the NZ Art Show app or Google Maps for easy access to both halls .
History
- The NZ Art Show launched in 2004 at TSB Arena, aiming to make original art accessible to all New Zealanders .
- Its inaugural edition featured 100 artists and drew 5,000 visitors, establishing a new platform for local talent.
- By 2005, the event expanded to include Shed 6, focusing on emerging artists and sculptures.
- In 2010, it showcased 3,000 works by 475 artists, with sales reaching NZD 1 million in three days.
- The 2011 edition introduced the Emerging Artists section, spotlighting new talent like Ben Timmins, whose bird paintings promoted the show.
- In 2013, a Charitable Trust was formed to govern the event, ensuring profits supported arts initiatives.
- The 201 Emergent section highlighted art students, fostering the next generation of creators.
- During 2020, the fair adapted with an online gallery, maintaining engagement amid global challenges.
- By 2023, it welcomed 250 artists and 15,000 visitors, with sections like New Zealand Glassworks added.
- The 2024 show featured over 4,000 artworks, reinforcing its status as New Zealand?s largest art event.
- Partnerships with Hyundai and TSB have sustained awards like the Emerging Artist Awards since 2015.
- Over two decades, the fair has sold millions in art, shaping Aotearoa?s art market significantly.
- It has consistently promoted diversity, showcasing Maori and Pacific Island artists prominently.
- The 2026 edition builds on this legacy, promising fresh works and innovative curation .
Mission
- The NZ Art Show?s mission is to inspire every New Zealander to own an original artwork, fostering a deep appreciation for Aotearoa?s creativity .
- It aims to create a vibrant, inclusive platform where artists from all regions can connect with diverse audiences.
- By supporting emerging talents through awards and dedicated spaces, the fair nurtures the future of New Zealand art.
- The Charitable Trust reinvests profits to fund artist grants, workshops, and community projects.
- The event promotes cultural diversity, celebrating Maori and Pacific Island narratives alongside contemporary works.
- Ultimately, it seeks to strengthen Aotearoa?s art ecosystem, making art accessible and impactful for all .
Tips for Visitors
- Purchase early bird tickets from October 1, 2025, to save and secure VIP access .
- Arrive early to explore both venues before peak crowds on Saturday and Sunday.
- Wear comfortable shoes for navigating the expansive TSB Arena and Shed 6.
- Download the NZ Art Show app for real-time schedules, maps, and artist profiles.
- Start at Shed 6 for emerging artists, then explore TSB Arena?s main galleries.
- Stay hydrated at on-site cafes offering coffee and local treats.
- Chat with artists for insights into their creative processes and inspirations.
- Respect art etiquette: No touching works and use flash-free photography.
- Bring kids for free entry (under 12) and engage them in demonstration areas.
- Combine with Wellington?s cultural spots like Te Papa for a full art day .
- Pre-book parking to avoid waterfront congestion during the holiday weekend.
- Attend talks for expert commentary on collecting and art trends.
- Network at VIP evenings for collector and artist connections.
- Follow up with artists via the online gallery for purchases post-show.
- Check social media for last-minute announcements and surprises .
