Following a decade-long redevelopment project, Te Whare o Rehua Sarjeant Gallery is proudly open at Pukenamu Queen’s Park in the centre of Whanganui
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Sarjeant Gallery Te Whare o Rehua

4.6
·296 reviews·Whanganui, New Zealand

A stunning blend of historic charm and modern design, showcasing diverse New Zealand art with free admission.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing

CrowdLow
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Following a decade-long redevelopment project, Te Whare o Rehua Sarjeant Gallery is proudly open at Pukenamu Queen’s Park in the centre of Whanganui

Sarjeant Gallery Te Whare o Rehua

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning blend of historic charm and modern design, showcasing diverse New Zealand art with free admission.

4.6
(296 reviews)

"What a beautiful building! Thank you for making this visit a free of charge. Staff are very helpful and great art exhibition within."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free Admission!

Enjoy incredible art without spending a dime. A fantastic value for any art lover. :moneywithwings:

📅 Check Exhibition Schedule

Exhibitions change! Visit their website to see what's on before you go. :calendar:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Renovated Heritage Building

Renovated Heritage Building

Step back in time in the beautifully restored original gallery, a testament to architectural history.

Modern New Extension

Modern New Extension

Experience contemporary design seamlessly integrated with the historic structure, offering new exhibition spaces.

Diverse Art Exhibitions

Diverse Art Exhibitions

Discover a dynamic range of art, from local talent to national artists, often with unique thematic focuses.

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Planning Your Visit

Free Entry, Big Impact

The Sarjeant Gallery Te Whare o Rehua offers free admission, making it an accessible gem. Plan your visit around current exhibitions, as they rotate and showcase diverse local and national artists. Check their website for event schedules like artist talks and film screenings.

Explore the New and Old

The gallery boasts both a beautifully renovated heritage building and a striking new extension. Allow ample time to explore both architectural styles and the art within. Many visitors highlight the impressive collection and the gallery's role in Whanganui's cultural scene.

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Crowd
Low
When
During special events
Why
Artist talks & concerts add buzz
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

As we prepare to welcome you to Te Whare o Rehua Sarjeant Gallery, Gallery Director Andrew Clifford shares what you can expect as a visitor to the gallery, marking the start of an exciting new chapter for Whanganui. From exhibitions to events spaces, a gallery café, and more, Te Whare o Rehua Sarjeant Gallery is ready for everyone to explore, engage with, and enjoy. It’s a place to connect with ar...
sarjeantgallery
215 likes • 4K views

🎯 Free Admission!

Enjoy incredible art without spending a dime. A fantastic value for any art lover. :moneywithwings:

📅 Check Exhibition Schedule

Exhibitions change! Visit their website to see what's on before you go. :calendar:

What a cool night that was @sarjeantgallery Te Whare o Rehua Sarjeant Gallery – 2025 Pattillo Whanganui Arts Review. I’m off for a proper look soon when it’s not so busy ☺️
eightyeightputiki
19 likes • 680 views
Opera in Te Whare o Rehua Sarjeant Gallery 🥰 #nzoperaschool #operaattewhareorehuasarjeantgallery #showtime
nzoperaschool
53 likes • 1.8K views

🏛️ Explore Both Buildings

Don't miss the contrast between the historic charm and the modern extension. :camerawithflash:

☕ Gallery Cafe

A new cafe offers a great spot to relax and refuel after your art immersion. :coffee:

Ngā mihinui ki te kura whakahirahira o Whanganui. Penei whakaaro mō te whakapuaretanga o Te Whare o Rehua. Congratulations Sarjeant Gallery (staff, board and all the trades people who helped create and bring these buildings alive) regarding the opening of the renovated heritage building and the brand new extension envisaged by the original architect 100 years ago. Dr Paul Goldsmith, Minister of A...
rangihiroa
41 likes • 312 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Admission!

Enjoy incredible art without spending a dime. A fantastic value for any art lover. :moneywithwings:

📅 Check Exhibition Schedule

Exhibitions change! Visit their website to see what's on before you go. :calendar:

🏛️ Explore Both Buildings

Don't miss the contrast between the historic charm and the modern extension. :camerawithflash:

☕ Gallery Cafe

A new cafe offers a great spot to relax and refuel after your art immersion. :coffee:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(296 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Sarjeant Gallery Te Whare o Rehua for its stunning architecture, both the beautifully restored heritage building and the modern new extension. The free admission is a significant draw, and the quality and diversity of the art exhibitions, featuring local and national artists, are highly appreciated. The addition of a cafe enhances the visitor experience.

"What a beautiful building! Thank you for making this visit a free of charge. Staff are very helpful and great art exhibition within"

Kritin

"Beautiful pieces of artwork we have seen by local artists. It was worth the visit my wife had planned on a rainy day. A must visit place."

Edward Rodrigues

"Amazing Gallery! They just reopened and added a new sector to the gallery which opened last week! Entrance is free so just give it a look if you pass by!"

Bianca H.

What People Like

Beautiful architecture
Free admission
Diverse art exhibitions

What People Dislike

Occasional closures

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Sarjeant Gallery Te Whare o Rehua is located in Whanganui, New Zealand. If you're driving, there is parking available nearby. Public transport options may include local bus routes that service the city center. Check local Whanganui transport schedules for the most up-to-date information. Instagram

While specific parking details can vary, the gallery is centrally located in Whanganui, suggesting that public parking facilities are likely accessible in the vicinity. It's always a good idea to check the gallery's official website or local council information for the most current parking advice. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Sarjeant Gallery Te Whare o Rehua offers free admission to all visitors. This makes it a highly accessible and popular destination for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. InstagramReddit

Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Sarjeant Gallery Te Whare o Rehua website for the most current information. They typically have regular hours throughout the week, but it's wise to confirm before your visit, especially around public holidays. Reddit

Since admission is free, advance booking is not required for general entry to the Sarjeant Gallery Te Whare o Rehua. However, for special events like artist talks or concerts, you may need to book tickets separately. Check the gallery's events page for details. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The Sarjeant Gallery Te Whare o Rehua features a diverse collection, including historical and contemporary New Zealand art. Exhibitions often showcase local artists, as well as national and international works, with a focus on rotating displays. InstagramReddit+1

Information on guided tours can be found on the Sarjeant Gallery Te Whare o Rehua's official website. They may offer guided tours for specific exhibitions or by arrangement. It's recommended to inquire directly with the gallery for the most accurate details. Instagram

The gallery has undergone significant renovations and extensions, which typically include modern accessibility features. It's advisable to contact the Sarjeant Gallery Te Whare o Rehua directly or check their website for specific accessibility information regarding ramps, elevators, and restroom facilities. Instagram

The Sarjeant Gallery Te Whare o Rehua now includes a new extension with exhibition spaces, and a gallery cafe. They also have event spaces that can be used for talks, concerts, and film screenings. Instagram+2

Photography policies can vary by exhibition. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use is often permitted, but it's essential to check for any signage or ask gallery staff for specific rules regarding photography within the Sarjeant Gallery Te Whare o Rehua. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the Sarjeant Gallery Te Whare o Rehua now features a gallery cafe within its new extension. It's a great place to enjoy refreshments and relax after exploring the art. Instagram

The cafe typically offers a selection of light meals, snacks, and beverages. For specific menu details, it's best to check the Sarjeant Gallery Te Whare o Rehua's website or inquire directly with the cafe. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The architecture of both the heritage building and the new extension offers stunning photographic opportunities. Look for unique angles of the facade, interior spaces, and any outdoor areas. The art itself can also be a subject, but always check photography rules. Instagram

Professional photoshoots may require special permission and potentially a fee. It's recommended to contact the Sarjeant Gallery Te Whare o Rehua administration in advance to discuss their policy on professional photography sessions. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Sarjeant Gallery Te Whare o Rehua is a great outing for families, especially with its free admission. While the focus is on art, the visual nature of exhibitions can be engaging for children. Look for any family-specific programming or interactive elements that might be available during your visit. The new extension offers modern spaces that can feel more approachable for younger visitors. Instagram+1

Consider visiting during less busy times to allow children to explore at their own pace. The gallery cafe also provides a convenient spot for a family break. Encourage them to talk about the art they see and what it makes them think or feel. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Sarjeant Gallery Te Whare o Rehua is an absolute must-visit. Its free entry policy means you can immerse yourself in world-class art without any cost. This makes it an excellent way to experience Whanganui's cultural offerings without impacting your spending. Reddit

Combine your gallery visit with other free activities in Whanganui, such as exploring the riverfront or local parks, to create a fulfilling and affordable day out. The gallery cafe offers refreshments, but you could also pack your own snacks to save further. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Architecture: A Tale of Two Eras

The Sarjeant Gallery Te Whare o Rehua is a fascinating blend of history and modernity. The original heritage building, a grand Beaux-Arts structure, has been meticulously restored, preserving its historical charm and architectural integrity. This section offers a glimpse into the past, with its classic design elements and sense of grandeur. InstagramReddit

Complementing the historic wing is a striking new extension, designed to house contemporary exhibitions and provide modern visitor facilities. This new addition showcases innovative architectural design, creating a dynamic contrast and dialogue with the original building. The integration of these two distinct styles makes the gallery a unique architectural destination in itself. Instagram+1

Visitors often praise the thoughtful way the new and old sections are connected, allowing for a seamless flow between different exhibition experiences. This architectural duality is a key part of what makes a visit to Te Whare o Rehua Sarjeant Gallery so engaging. Instagram

Exhibitions and Collections

The Sarjeant Gallery Te Whare o Rehua is renowned for its diverse and engaging art exhibitions. While it houses a significant permanent collection of historical and contemporary New Zealand art, the gallery is also a dynamic space for temporary exhibitions. These often feature works by prominent national artists, as well as emerging local talent, ensuring a fresh and varied experience for repeat visitors. InstagramReddit+2

Recent exhibitions have included explorations of specific artistic mediums, such as pottery, and thematic showcases that delve into New Zealand's cultural narratives. The gallery actively engages with artists, often hosting artist talks and events that provide deeper insights into their work and creative processes. Instagram+3

Whether you're interested in classic New Zealand landscapes, contemporary installations, or unique craft-based art, the Sarjeant Gallery Te Whare o Rehua offers a rich and rewarding artistic journey. Checking their website for current and upcoming exhibitions is highly recommended to make the most of your visit. Reddit

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