Art, a loved skill in both the ancient and modern world, has always beguiled the hearts of many. Auckland, the sunny and beautiful town by the sea is a picturesque sight that is also home to many artists and art enthusiasts.

With much love showered towards Arts & Crafts, the Kiwi following is quite large and devoted which is quite evident by the numbers of Art Galleries found in the city. One of these many galleries is the prestigious Auckland Art Gallery or the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki.

Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki was built and established in 1888 and is located in central Auckland. Situated close to Albert             Park, the building’s architecture reflects that of the era. The Auckland Art Gallery however expanded into another building, where the New Gallery is found directly across the road from the Old Gallery, situated close to Albert Park. The Old Gallery which was built in 1887 and was initially Auckland City’s Free Public Library and Municipal building was handed over to the government and opened as a gallery that came to be known as the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki the following year. The New Gallery which is home to many modern and contemporary pieces was opened in 1995.

Being the largest art establishment in the island known to many as The Shaky Isles, the gallery is home to a collection of over 12,500 works of art.  With certain pieces dating as far back to the 13th century, some of these masterpieces are of early Maori portraits, landscapes drawings of the island while some are contemporary art.

Some of the major pieces of art include New Zealand art that belongs caters to historic, modern and contemporary categories. With awe-inspiring works from Maori & Pacific Island artists, the Auckland Art Gallery is home to European artworks, sculptures and print collections which date back to 1376. With these dazzling art collections , exhibitions and as well as education programs held throughout the year, there is certainly no better place to take in fine New Zealand art than at the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki.

Take in the wonders of culture and heritage of this beauteous land, by visiting the many tourist attractions along with Auckland Art Gallery whist staying at a hotel in Auckland such as Copthorne Hotel Auckland Harbour City. Situated on the waterfront this Auckland hotel presents comfortable lodgings to discerning guests to ensure a relaxing and peaceful stay.