The Wellington Art Fair 2026 emerges as a dynamic celebration of New Zealand?s contemporary art scene, bringing together over 100 artists and thousands of original artworks at the Takina Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre . Scheduled for February 27 to March 1, 2026, this event transforms the capital?s waterfront into a bustling hub for art lovers, collectors, and curious visitors. Showcasing a diverse range of mediums?painting, sculpture, pottery, jewelry, and large-scale installations?the fair highlights both emerging and established talents from across Aotearoa. As one of the North Island?s largest art sales events, it offers a unique opportunity to engage directly with artists and acquire unique pieces . The fair features curated sections like the STUFF Art Aotearoa GOLD Award, spotlighting exceptional creativity, and includes interactive workshops for all ages. Coinciding with Wellington?s vibrant cultural calendar, it draws over 10,000 attendees annually, fostering a welcoming atmosphere for both seasoned collectors and first-time buyers. With its focus on accessibility and innovation, the 2026 edition promises to elevate New Zealand?s art market further. Expect live demonstrations, performances, and a lively environment that celebrates the nation?s creative spirit .
Quick Facts
- Dates: February 27 (VIP Preview), public days February 2 ?March 1, 2026 .
- Location: Takina Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre, 50 Cable Street, Wellington, New Zealand .
- Organizer: Art Shows Across Aotearoa, known for regional art fairs.
- Founded: 2014, as a key platform for New Zealand artists.
- Visitor Numbers (2024): Over 10,000, reflecting growing popularity.
- Presented By: Partners including STUFF and local sponsors, boosting visibility.
Highlights
- STUFF Art Aotearoa GOLD Award: Celebrates top artists with a $35,000 prize, showcasing standout works .
- Large Art and Sculptures: Features bold statement pieces and intricate pottery displays.
- Jewelry Showcase: Highlights wearable art from New Zealand?s finest artisans.
- Live Art Demos: Watch artists create in real-time, offering insights into their craft .
- Interactive Workshops: Engage in hands-on activities for kids and adults alike.
- VIP Evenings: Enjoy exclusive previews with live music and networking opportunities .
Organizer
- Art Shows Across Aotearoa orchestrates the fair, managing events like the Auckland and Christchurch Art Shows with expertise .
- The team focuses on promoting New Zealand artists through high-profile, accessible platforms.
- Collaborations with sponsors like STUFF ensure robust support for awards and programming.
- A dedicated selection process guarantees a diverse, high-quality array of artworks.
What to Attend
- Main Exhibition: Explore thousands of artworks, from paintings to ceramics, across the venue .
- GOLD Award Display: Admire prize-winning pieces in a dedicated showcase.
- Sculpture and Jewelry Areas: Discover unique 3D and wearable art creations .
- Live Demonstrations: Witness artists painting, sculpting, or crafting jewelry live.
- Workshops: Join family-friendly sessions to create your own art.
- VIP Events: Attend exclusive evenings for early access and collector networking .
Ticket Information
- General Admission: Approximately NZD 15?20 per day, available via wellingtonartshow.co.nz .
- Premium Ticket Packages: From NZD 50, including art vouchers and VIP preview access.
- Concessions: Discounts for students and seniors at NZD 10; free for minors under adult supervision.
- Multi-Day Pass: Expected at NZD 30 for unlimited entry across all days.
- Online Booking: Recommended for fast-track entry and early bird deals.
- No Refunds: Tickets are non-refundable, per fair policy .
Getting There
- Location: Takina Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre, 50 Cable Street, nestled in Wellington?s vibrant Te Aro district near the waterfront .
- By Bus: Metlink routes 1, 3, or 14 stop at Courtenay Place, a 5-minute walk from the venue.
- By Train: From Wellington Station, it?s a 15-minute walk along Wakefield Street or a quick bus ride.
- By Ferry: Interislander or Bluebridge ferries dock at Wellington Port, a 10-minute taxi or 20-minute walk away.
- By Car: Drive via Wakefield Street; parking at Wilson Parking (NZD 15?20/day) or nearby lots, with limited spots.
- From Wellington Airport: Take the Airport Flyer (route 91) to Courtenay Place (20 minutes) or a taxi for NZD 25?35.
- Accessibility: The venue offers ramps, elevators, and accessible parking for inclusivity.
- Eco-Friendly Options: Cycle along the waterfront or use e-scooters from Te Aro hubs for a green approach.
- Parking Tips: Pre-book via Parkopedia to secure spots, especially during peak weekend hours.
- Navigation: Use Google Maps or the fair?s app for precise directions to Takina?s main entrance .
History
- The Wellington Art Fair began in 2014 as part of Art Shows Across Aotearoa?s initiative to promote New Zealand artists regionally .
- Its first edition at TSB Arena featured 50 artists and drew 5,000 visitors, focusing on affordable art sales.
- By 2016, the fair expanded to include pottery and jewelry, attracting broader audiences.
- In 201 , the introduction of the STUFF Art Aotearoa GOLD Award, valued at $35,000, elevated its prestige.
- The 2019 edition saw 0 artists and ,000 attendees, with large-scale sculptures gaining attention.
- During 2020, the fair pivoted to include virtual galleries, ensuring accessibility amid global challenges.
- In 2021, it relocated to Takina Convention Centre, offering modern facilities and larger spaces.
- The 2022 fair featured interactive workshops, engaging families and younger visitors.
- By 2023, it showcased 100+ artists, with sales exceeding NZD 500,000 over three days.
- The 2024 edition solidified its reputation, drawing 10,000 visitors and featuring live demonstrations.
- Maori and Pacific Island artists have been increasingly highlighted, reflecting cultural diversity.
- Partnerships with local businesses and sponsors like STUFF have sustained its growth.
- The fair has contributed to Wellington?s reputation as Aotearoa?s cultural capital.
- The 2026 edition builds on this legacy, promising innovative displays and community focus .
Mission
- The Wellington Art Fair?s mission is to make New Zealand?s contemporary art accessible to all, fostering a vibrant connection between artists and audiences .
- It aims to showcase Aotearoa?s diverse creative talent, from emerging voices to established names.
- By offering affordable artworks and engaging programs, the fair encourages widespread art ownership.
- The event supports local communities through workshops and opportunities for young artists.
- It celebrates Maori and Pacific Island narratives, promoting cultural inclusivity.
- Ultimately, it seeks to strengthen Wellington?s role as a dynamic hub for New Zealand?s art ecosystem .
Tips for Visitors
- Book tickets early via wellingtonartshow.co.nz to secure discounts and VIP access .
- Arrive early on February 27 for the VIP preview to view artworks without crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes to explore Takina?s expansive exhibition halls.
- Use the fair?s app for real-time schedules, artist profiles, and venue maps.
- Start with the GOLD Award display for prize-winning highlights, then explore sculptures.
- Stay hydrated at on-site cafes offering local coffee and snacks.
- Engage with artists for insights into their creative processes and inspirations.
- Follow no-touch and no-flash photography rules to respect artworks.
- Bring kids for free entry (with supervision) and fun workshop activities.
- Combine with visits to nearby Te Papa or City Gallery for a full art day .
- Pre-book parking to avoid weekend congestion around the waterfront.
- Attend live demos to see artists craft pottery or jewelry in action.
- Network at VIP evenings for collector and artist connections.
- Follow up with artists via the fair?s website for purchase inquiries.
- Stay updated on social media for last-minute events and surprises .
