Te Papa to open two floors of exciting new art in June
Te Papa has announced an exciting new suite of exhibitions for Toi Art, its renowned art gallery and home of New Zealand’s national art collection.
From June 2025, new exhibitions will span the two levels of Toi Art, showcasing new commissions and acquisitions, and beloved works from the national art collection. The exhibitions will be in the gallery until 2027.
Showcased in the immersive threshold gallery from June 14 are two monumental sculptural works: Black Phoenix by Ralph Hotere and Ngā Morehu by Shona Rapira Davies.
When the remaining galleries open to the public on June 28, visitors will be spoiled for choice with 173 artworks on show, including a large number of works never before shown at Te Papa.
The bold and energetic exhibitions include paintings, sculpture, ceramics, jewellery, works on paper, moving images, embroidery, installations and even a video game created by New Zealand artist Kahurangiariki Smith that can be played in the gallery.
Visitors can hone their own artistic skills in a new Art Studio, offering a range of creative activities for whānau and children of all ages.
From the photography collection, the black and white images captured by Leslie Adkin provide surprising glimpses into life in New Zealand in the early 20th century, from giant vegetables to romantic family portraits.
In collaboration with Artspace Aotearoa, among the exhibiting artists is Lubaina Himid, recently selected to represent the UK at the 2026 Venice Biennale.
Te Papa Chief Executive Courtney Johnston said the museum was looking forward to offering a vibrant experience of art in Toi Art.
“There is an incredible array of new art coming for our audiences at Te Papa,” Ms Johnston said.
“From embroidery to video games, monumental sculpture to playful jewellery, the 173 artworks offer something for everyone.”
“With a focus on artworks created since 1960, the new exhibitions bring fresh energy and perspectives, including exciting new acquisitions by contemporary artists.”
“These exhibitions feature a high representation of women, Māori, Pacific and Asian-New Zealand artists, and are a testament to the diversity and richness of our collections,” adds Ms Johnston.
Spanning almost 4,000 square metres, Toi Art has had more than three million visitors since it opened in 2018. Level 5 of Toi Art closed in May 2024 for replacement of its sprinkler system. Level 4 of Toi Art continues to host Vivienne Westwood & Jewellery until April 27.
Toi Art exhibiting artists include
Ralph Hotere
Shona Rapira Davies
Maureen Lander
Leslie Adkin
Lubaina Himid (UK)
Michael Parekōwhai
Lily Laita
Anne Noble
Susan Te Kahurangi King
Yona Lee
Pip Culbert
Barbara Tuck
Teuane Tibbo
Areez Katki
Erica van Zon
Jane Dodd
Lisa Reihana
Kahurangiariki Smith
Hariata Ropata Tangahoe
Pauline Yearbury
Douglas MacDiarmid
Eileen Mayo
ENDS
Media contact:
Heather Byrne, Senior Communications Advisor
029 601 0120 | heather.byrne@tepapa.govt.nz
Photos and captions
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Image captions:
Maureen Lander, Huna: Kaitiaki o te Harakeke, 2012. Te Papa (ME024116)
Teuane Tibbo, Puss puss, circa 1970. Purchased 1996 with New Zealand Lottery Grants Board funds. Te Papa (1996-0021-1)
Leslie Adkin, Gilbert Adkin with giant cauliflower, 'Cheslyn Rise' farm, circa 1910. Gift of G. L. Adkin family estate, 1964. Te Papa (B.022534)
Douglas MacDiarmid, Papa cliff pool with bathers, Taihape, 1947. Purchased 1993 with Harold Beauchamp Collection funds. Te Papa (1993-0037-7)
About Te Papa
Te Papa is Aotearoa New Zealand’s much-loved national museum, known for attracting diverse audiences and bringing world-class international exhibitions to visitors.
Since opening, Te Papa has attracted over 35 million visits total and an average of 1.4 million visitors per year. Located in Wellington, Te Papa is one of New Zealand's most well-known and trusted brands, with research showing it’s closely associated with being for all New Zealander’s, a kaitiaki of knowledge, a trusted source of information, and a world-class destination. Entry is free for New Zealanders, with an entry charge of $35 for international visitors over 16.