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The 7 Biggest Art Gallery in Christchurch, New Zealand

Christchurch’s art scene is vibrant and diverse, with a wide range of galleries showcasing both local and international talent. From contemporary masterpieces to traditional paintings, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here are 7 of the best art galleries that Christchurch has to offer, each offering a unique perspective on the world of art and creativity.

Whether you’re a seasoned art collector or just starting to appreciate the finer things in life, these galleries are sure to leave you inspired and amazed. Discover hidden gems, engage with thought-provoking exhibitions, and perhaps even find that perfect piece to add to your own collection.

Top Art Gallery in Christchurch, New Zealand

The Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū, commonly known as the Christchurch Art Gallery, is the public art gallery of the city of Christchurch, New Zealand. It has its own substantial art collection and also presents a programme of New Zealand and international exhibitions. It is funded by Christchurch City Council. The gallery opened on 10 May 2003, replacing the city's previous public art gallery, the Robert McDougall Art Gallery, which had opened in 1932.
The Māori elements of the name are explained as follows: Te Puna honours waipuna, the artesian spring beneath the gallery and Waiwhetu refers to one of the tributaries in the immediate vicinity, which flows into the River Avon. Waiwhetu may also be translated as 'water in which stars are reflected'.

Top Art Gallery in Christchurch, New Zealand

Canterbury Museum

  • Address: 66 Gloucester Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8013, New Zealand
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.6 (4925)
  • Phone: +64 3 366 5000
  • Website:
  • Opening hours:
    Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
    Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
    Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
    Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
    Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
    Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
    Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Rutherford's Den in Christchurch, New Zealand
Rutherford’s Den in Christchurch, New Zealand

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Embark on a thrilling journey through the diverse array of Art Gallery in cities like Wellington, Auckland and Wodonga across the Oceania continents, revealing hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a local business or a multinational company, these cities proudly display a rich tapestry of profesional services designed to cater to a wide array of preferences.

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The 7 Best Art Gallery near Christchurch, New Zealand

Rutherford's Den in Christchurch, New Zealand
Rutherford’s Den in Christchurch, New Zealand

Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū

  • Address: 312 Montreal Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8013, New Zealand
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.5 (3119)
  • Phone: +64 3 941 7300
  • Website:
  • Opening hours:
    Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
    Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
    Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
    Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
    Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
    Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
    Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Reviews:
    Amrutha Venkata✭✭✭✭
    a week ago
    My experience at Christchurch Art Gallery was lovely. I’m a novice when it comes to art appreciation but it was enjoyable to see the different exhibits. The entry is free and you can comfortably spend an hour or two here. The place also offers free WiFi and washroom facilities. Revenue is donation based and you can choose to donate as you wish.
    M Hoogerheide✭✭✭
    3 months ago
    My visit to the Christchurch Art Gallery was a mixed experience, and I would rate it three stars. Art is incredibly subjective, and while I appreciated some aspects, others left me feeling a bit disconnected. The art in the rooms upstairs was challenging for me to understand and perhaps a bit too old-fashioned for my taste.

    On the other hand, I thoroughly enjoyed the works by Robin; her art was captivating, and I found myself drawn into her creative process as I watched her set up. While the gallery may not have been a perfect fit for me, it’s important to remember that art is a deeply personal journey, and others may find different aspects more appealing.

    Rhonda S✭✭✭✭✭
    a month ago
    Highly recommended for anyone who enjoy arts and paintings. free entries. The entire building are well structured. Filled with eye catching artwork.
    Roman Battaglia✭✭✭✭✭
    a month ago
    Really amazing gallery. It’s free so definitely worth a visit there. Lots of local New Zealand art which I loved!
    Jonas Guevarra✭✭✭✭✭
    3 months ago
    My 3rd time here and always a pleasure visiting. They showcase good art collections and keeps on changing every time so there’s always something to see

The Arts Centre

  • Address: Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8013, New Zealand
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.5 (642)
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Rutherford’s Den

  • Address: 2 Worcester Boulevard, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8140, New Zealand
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.7 (69)

Ravenscar House Museum

  • Address: 52 Rolleston Avenue, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8013, New Zealand
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.5 (54)

Teece Museum of Classical Antiquities

  • Address: 3 Hereford Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8013, New Zealand
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.8 (52)

The Physics Room

  • Address: Registry Building, 301 Montreal Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8013, New Zealand
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.3 (32)
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Thank you for reading! If you have any additional information on the best Art Gallery in Christchurch, New Zealand, please leave a comment above. We would love to hear from you!

5 Replies to The 7 Biggest Art Gallery in Christchurch, New Zealand

  1. Firstly I have to emphasize how friendly and helpful the staff are. They’re so excited about explaining all the items and the book called 150 Items in Canterbury Museum. I love the “Six Extinction” theme held with some casts from Botswana Studio. They’re doing a great job casting the original fossils for the other part of the world to see. Especially Scotty the T-rex.

  2. The main museum was undergoing renovations when I visited but based on what was open for display I would definitely come back once renovations are finished. The Six Extinctions gallery is a wonderful exploration of the mass extinctions our planet has undergone, and the fossil casts are astounding, especially Scotty the Tyrannosaurus.

  3. Great exhibition!! They are rebuilding the museum so this “little” exhibition are what they have until the “real” museum are ready again. Great for me, that love fossils.

  4. Wish I was aware the original musuem was under renovations. As a musuem lover I was disappointed to be diverted to a smaller space. However, the staff are so welcoming and the space they have is used so well. I still learnt thing just not in the way I was expecting.

    Especially loved that they remembered me the next day at quake city, felt very much like someone of importance rather than just me.

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