Whanganui Arts @ the Centre is a community arts organisation and gallery at 19 Taupo Quay on the Whanganui riverfront. It operates as a hub for local artists — running gallery exhibitions, providing studio access, and offering arts programmes and classes for the Whanganui community. The riverfront location makes it a natural stop on any walk along the quay.
Practical Information
| Address | 19 Taupo Quay, Whanganui |
| Hours | Monday–Friday 10am–4pm, Saturday 10am–1pm |
| Admission | Free gallery entry |
| Phone | 027 215 1404 |
| wh***********@***il.com | |
| Website | whanganuiarts.com |
| Parking | Street parking on Taupo Quay |
About Whanganui Arts @ the Centre
Whanganui Arts @ the Centre operates from a building on Taupo Quay — the historic riverfront street that runs along the Whanganui River. As a community arts organisation, its primary focus is supporting working artists in Whanganui through affordable studio space and a venue for showing and selling work.
The gallery hosts rotating exhibitions of work by local and New Zealand artists, with shows changing regularly throughout the year. The space is accessible and unpretentious — it functions as a working arts centre rather than a formal institution, which gives it a different character from the Sarjeant Gallery or larger commercial galleries. Gallery entry is free, and original works are available for purchase directly from exhibiting artists.
Arts programmes and classes are also run from the centre, covering a range of visual arts disciplines. The centre is active in supporting arts education and community participation in the arts across the Whanganui district. For current class and workshop schedules, the website is the best source.
Where to Learn More
Whanganui Arts @ the Centre — Official Website — current exhibitions, class and workshop listings, studio access information, and contact details.
Coastal Arts Trail — Whanganui Arts @ the Centre — context on the centre within the broader Whanganui and Manawatū arts trail linking galleries and studios along the coast.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Whanganui Arts @ the Centre?
It’s a community arts organisation and gallery at 19 Taupo Quay — providing studio space for local artists, hosting exhibitions, and running arts classes and workshops for the Whanganui community.
What are the opening hours?
Monday to Friday 10am–4pm, Saturday 10am–1pm. Closed Sundays.
Is entry to the gallery free?
Yes — gallery entry is free. Workshops and classes have their own fees; check the website for current pricing.
Can I buy artwork at Whanganui Arts @ the Centre?
Yes — original works by exhibiting artists are available for purchase directly through the gallery.
Does Whanganui Arts @ the Centre run classes?
Yes — arts classes and workshops covering a range of disciplines are offered throughout the year. Current schedules are on the website at whanganuiarts.com.
Where is Whanganui Arts @ the Centre?
At 19 Taupo Quay, on the riverfront in central Whanganui — walking distance from the Royal Whanganui Opera House and the main retail area.
For the full picture of Whanganui’s cultural scene, see the guide to Historical and Cultural Sites in Whanganui. The New Zealand Glassworks on Rutland Street is another accessible, free-entry arts venue worth combining with a Taupo Quay visit.