East Auckland Art Scene

Distance: 
19 kms from City Centre

Approximate time: 

40 minute drive from City : 2 to 4 hour outing

Date: 18/09/2020

Author: Annette Smart

Art galleries, craft markets and specific retail outlets provide an insight into art and the artists that flourish in East Auckland.  With the amazing surroundings of sea, sand, native bush and countryside there is no shortage of inspiration.  

Starting at Te Tuhi in Pakuranga you can experience a range of small exhibitions that change regularly.  Te Tuhi is an important contemporary art space, collaborates internationally, and encourages and supports experimental art.  Open 7 days – check their website for current exhibition details

Heading further south along Pakuranga Highway towards Howick you will pass Lloyd Elsmore Park, home to a large number of sporting clubs.  It is also home to the Howick Historical Village which gives a taste of early settler life and is a great place to visit.  The Historical Village does host exhibitions under the banner of Arts out East, but these are seasonal. 

Arriving in Howick and driving past Stockade Hill you will be delighted by the scenery across the gulf.  Howick has maintained its old English village feel keeping its special character.  Midway into the village is The Prospect –  the first hotel in the village originally called the Marine Hotel.  Turn down Uxbridge Road and Uxbridge Art and Culture Centre is on your right hand side next to the library.  This newly renovated community facility has a dedicated art gallery as well as a wonderful forecourt where various exhibitions are on display.  Uxbridge also hold classes for adults and children teaching a wide range of artistic skills from jewellery making, pottery, painting, ceramics, photography etc and its small theatre provides a great venue for concerts and talks.

On Saturday mornings the Howick Village Market has stalls selling crafts as well as wonderful food.   A bit further on along the road is Green Gables open Fridays to Sundays.  This is a fantastic spot to visit and enjoy a wide array of artworks by the members of the Howick Art Group. 

End your outing at one of the many local restaurants or cafes while enjoying the ambiance of this very special part of East Auckland.  Basalt, The Apothecary, Daisy Chang and The Good Home  are just a few eateries in the village.  Just around the corner is The Indian Kitchen.

Our Tip:
Over the December Holiday period some galleries may close.  Please check each location for their specific dates.  

Things to do nearby:

Take a stroll along one of the many beaches – Eastern, Bucklands, Howick.  Visit Musick Point and Stockade Hill for stunning views.  Looking for a serious walk – Managemangeroa is well worth visiting – wear good footwear and take water and sunscreen.