We’re launching with nine exceptional exhibitions from artists across Aotearoa, Australia, and the Pacific. Step into the Craigs Investment Partners Atrium and experience the groundbreaking augmented reality of Kereama Taepa’s Whakairo — one of the most ambitious digital art experiences staged in a New Zealand gallery. Dance to Ngura Pukulpa — Happy Place by Australian Anangu artist Kaylene Whiskey. Revisit cherished portraits in Old Friends from the Gallery collection, and — for the first time in Tauranga — the powerful art of senior Māori artist Darcy Nicholas.

So, what’s new? Almost everything! While we were closed, we undertook a major seismic and structural upgrade, created a fresh new entrance, full interior transformation, upgraded lighting and climate systems, a brand-new café, and a creativity centre for whānau and young people. Plus, don’t miss our new retail space featuring bespoke products by local artists.

The architectural redesign, led by Warren and Mahoney, was inspired by the concepts in the work of Tauranga Moana contemporary artist Maraea Timutimu. The result is a space that feels deeply connected to our people, our place, and our stories.

Finally, we have a bold new identity developed by Extended Whānau, that honours everything we represent. Inspired by the rich history of our site, Te Papa ō Waka, once a thriving garden on the water’s edge, our new look is rooted in ideas of sustenance and abundance — nourishing our community and visitors to the Gallery through art and creativity.