New Zealand boasts some incredible collections of art in some stunning locations.From grand-scale art in parks to making movie magic, New Zealand can offer visitors a range of exclusive artistic and cultural experiences – from highbrow to just plain wow. With companies offering tours with a fine art focus, or boutique accommodation set within sculpture parks, you’ll find all manner of upmarket art experiences in Aotearoa.
Gibbs Farm Sculpture Park, Auckland
Wrapped around the ever-changing Kaipara Harbour, this lavish private collection of outdoor art includes major works by Ralph Hotere, Chris Booth and Anish Kapoor, all assembled by philanthropist art patron Alan Gibbs. You’ll need at least three hours to do Gibbs Farm and its artworks any sort of justice. This 405ha folly features rolling green hills sliding down to the sea, and sheep, yaks, buffaloes and giraffes live among the art. The unique art experience is closed in winter. And be prepared: there’s a lot of ground to cover, but not a lot of shelter.
Travel Tips
The Park is 40 minutes’ drive north of Auckland. It’s available to view by prior appointment only (you can book ahead for the monthly open days), and you’ll need good walking shoes, food and drink. Planning well ahead is essential. Popular nearby attractions include Parakai Springs Hot Pools and Kaipara Cruises, as well as the quaint town of Helensville with its railway museum and Regent Cinema second-hand shop. The fabulous Kaipara Coast Sculpture Gardens is an easier-to-access option if Gibbs Farm proves too tricky.
Connells Bay Sculpture Park, Waiheke Island
A happy marriage of art, nature and scenery, this Waiheke Island wonderland features a range of charming spaces with sculptures created with the site in mind. With permanent and short-term sculptures on display, you will delight at the works – and the beautiful location. You’ll also be thrilled to learn there is a cottage available to rent – a beautifully appointed, historic two-bedroom guesthouse. John and Jo Gow – long renowned for their generous support of the arts – are the philanthropic local couple behind this magnificent labour of love.
Travel Tips
Dreamy Waiheke Island is 40 minutes from downtown Auckland by ferry (faster by helicopter or sea plane) with the many attractions vying for your attention including a variety of vineyards, restaurants and cafés, electric bike hire, zip-lining, kayak tours, walks and some gorgeous beaches where you can peacefully while away the hours.
Matakana’s Sculptureum, Auckland
The freshly minted Sculptureum in Matakana might be a newcomer to the art scene, but it is home to an outstandingly impressive private collection. You’ll find the works of Cézanne, Chagall and Rodin on display. When owners Anthony and Sandra Grant opened their property to the public, they described it as “art entertainment”. With three sculpture gardens and six galleries to browse around, you’ll be glad to know there’s also Rothko, a restaurant and bar that’s the perfect environment for refuelling and reflecting.
Travel Tips
Matakana village is close enough to Auckland to be accessible yet far enough away to feel removed from city life. Sculptureum features three sculpture gardens and six galleries to browse around,as well as Rothko, a restaurant and bar on site.
There’s a popular farmers’ market on Saturday mornings and artisan shops. Several beautiful beaches are nearby. Bike and surfboard hire are available, as is the delicious homemade ice-cream at Oob Organic Berries.
