City Gallery Wellington
A vibrant hub for contemporary art, City Gallery Wellington showcases innovative exhibitions from NZ and international artists, offering free entry an...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy a vibrant atmosphere
City Gallery Wellington
Best Time
Enjoy a vibrant atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant hub for contemporary art, City Gallery Wellington showcases innovative exhibitions from NZ and international artists, offering free entry and engaging events.
"This place is well-organized. It is a place that everyone should visit if you are in Wellington, especially for those who are into arts."
Check Current Hours First
Hours have changed due to construction. Always verify on their website before visiting! :clock1:
Donations Welcome!
Entry is free, but donations are encouraged to support the gallery's amazing work. :heart:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Contemporary Art Exhibitions
Experience cutting-edge contemporary art from New Zealand and international artists. Always innovative and inspiring.
Thought-Provoking Installations
Discover unique, challenging, and diverse installations that push boundaries and spark conversation.
The Giant Moon Exhibition
A mesmerizing and free exhibition featuring a giant moon, offering a unique and relaxing visual experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Temporary Location & Hours
Free Entry & Donations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Current Hours First
Hours have changed due to construction. Always verify on their website before visiting! :clock1:
Donations Welcome!
Entry is free, but donations are encouraged to support the gallery's amazing work. :heart:
Accessible for All
The gallery is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it a great visit for everyone. :wheelchair:
Explore Beyond Exhibits
Don't miss the art on the building itself and the surrounding international atmosphere. :world_map:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Current Hours First
Hours have changed due to construction. Always verify on their website before visiting! :clock1:
Donations Welcome!
Entry is free, but donations are encouraged to support the gallery's amazing work. :heart:
Accessible for All
The gallery is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it a great visit for everyone. :wheelchair:
Explore Beyond Exhibits
Don't miss the art on the building itself and the surrounding international atmosphere. :world_map:
Giant Moon Magic
The giant moon exhibition is a must-see and offers a truly relaxing and unique experience. :sparkles:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise City Gallery Wellington for its diverse and thought-provoking contemporary art exhibitions, often highlighting unique and innovative installations. The gallery is appreciated for its free entry, friendly and knowledgeable staff, and accessible facilities, making it a highly recommended cultural experience in Wellington.
"This place is well-organized. It is a place that everyone should visit if you are in Wellington, especially for those who are into arts. There is no need to make a reservation for this place. You can walk in. The staff is very friendly and helpful throughout the exhibition. Overall, it was such a great experience."
Sopharath Eang
"Lovely space, great spot to get in out of the cold and get some ever changing art. Wheelchair and stroller accessible. Also a lovely cafe and tiny shelf shop. Staff are knowledgeable and friendly"
A Bahrij
"I LOVE City Gallery! Yes please. They are the best gallery in Wellington and it's free (but you should donate!) and it always has the most interesting installations. Thursday evenings are great. I just can't say enough good things about this beautiful space. I have watched Purple Rain there. Some crazy Michael Jackson video love letter, the best 100 chair exhibition, a very cool exhibit on the NZ mob scene. It's just so varied and so cool. Very culturally important. Thank you City Gallery! xo"
T T
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
City Gallery Wellington is currently located at the National Library of New Zealand, easily accessible from Parliament and the Railway Station in Wellington Central. You can walk or take public transport to reach this central location.
While there isn't dedicated gallery parking, there are several public car parks available in the Wellington CBD. Consider public transport or walking if possible to avoid parking hassles.
Yes, the National Library of New Zealand, where the gallery is temporarily housed, is well-served by public transport. Buses and trains stop nearby, making it easy to reach.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to City Gallery Wellington is free! However, they greatly appreciate donations to support their exhibitions and programming.
Reservations are not required for general entry to City Gallery Wellington. You can walk in and explore the exhibitions at your own pace.
The opening hours have changed due to construction. Currently, they are typically Monday-Friday from 4-7:30 PM and Saturday-Sunday from 10 AM-5 PM. It's best to check their official website for the most current hours before your visit.
Yes, City Gallery Wellington hosts various events, including exhibition openings and past events like 'Tuatara Open Late'. Check their website for upcoming events.
Absolutely! Donations are highly encouraged and help the gallery continue to offer free entry and diverse exhibitions. Look for donation points within the gallery.
🎫 🖼️ Onsite Experience
City Gallery Wellington focuses on contemporary art, showcasing thought-provoking and innovative works from New Zealand and international artists, including paintings, sculptures, installations, and video art.
Yes, the gallery is generally suitable for families. It's wheelchair and stroller accessible, and the diverse exhibitions can spark curiosity in younger visitors.
Yes, there is a lovely cafe and a small shop selling art-related items. It's a great place to grab a coffee or find a unique souvenir.
The 'Giant Moon' exhibition is a popular, free installation that many visitors find very relaxing and visually captivating.
The 'Quasi' artwork by Ronnie van Hout was a notable sculpture that sat on the roof of the City Gallery Wellington for several years, becoming a familiar sight for locals.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary by exhibition. Generally, personal photography without flash is permitted for non-commercial use, but it's always best to check signage or ask gallery staff for specific exhibition rules.
Beyond the exhibitions, the architecture of the National Library building and the surrounding area offer interesting photographic opportunities. The 'Giant Moon' exhibition also makes for unique shots.
Past iconic artworks include 'The Only Dream Left' by Reuben Paterson and the 'Quasi' sculpture on the roof. Keep an eye out for current installations that capture the imagination. 
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during less crowded times, like weekday mornings if possible, to allow children more space to explore. The 'Giant Moon' exhibition has been noted as a particularly relaxing and visually appealing experience that can captivate children.
💰 Budget Travelers
While admission is free, consider making a donation if you enjoyed your visit. The gallery also has a cafe and a shop, but you can easily enjoy the art without purchasing anything. Exploring the art on the building's exterior and the surrounding area also offers free visual stimulation.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Temporary Location
The temporary setup still aims to provide the same engaging experience, featuring a diverse range of contemporary art. The gallery's commitment to showcasing innovative and thought-provoking exhibitions remains a core focus. Visitors can expect a dynamic display of works from both local and international artists, ensuring there's always something new and exciting to discover. The accessibility of the National Library building also means the gallery remains a convenient and welcoming destination for all art enthusiasts.
Despite the change in venue, the spirit of City Gallery Wellington endures. The gallery continues to be a vital cultural hub, offering free entry and encouraging visitors to engage deeply with the art on display. The temporary location is a testament to their adaptability and dedication to serving the Wellington community and its visitors with high-quality contemporary art experiences.
The Art of Engagement: Exhibitions and Events
Beyond the permanent displays, the gallery frequently hosts special events and temporary installations. Past highlights include the mesmerizing 'Giant Moon' exhibition, which offered a unique and relaxing visual experience, and the 'Tuatara Open Late' events that celebrated art and community. These events often create a vibrant atmosphere, making a visit even more memorable.
The gallery's commitment to diversity and inclusivity is evident in its selection of artists and themes. They actively seek out works from a wide range of backgrounds and perspectives, ensuring that the exhibits resonate with a broad audience. This dedication to varied artistic voices makes City Gallery Wellington a culturally significant institution in New Zealand.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit