The New Plymouth Museums and Art Galleries You Can’t Miss
Discover the stories, history and inspiration of the people of Taranaki at the fantastic art galleries and museums in New Plymouth! The hub of the Taranaki region is brimming with art and culture for everyone to enjoy with entry to each attraction either free or extremely affordable. So whether you’re looking for something to do on a rainy day or simply want to culture yourself, be inspired by this list of the must-see museums and art galleries in New Plymouth.
While you’re in the city, don’t miss the 10 New Plymouth Must-Dos or the 11 Free or Cheap Things to Do in New Plymouth.
1. Puke Ariki
Puke Ariki is the regional museum for Taranaki and a must-go on your New Plymouth museum and gallery crawl! Learn about Taranaki’s Maori and pioneering past through the exhibitions, four of which are permanent and others are temporary. Check out interactive displays about the local flora and fauna, as well as how Mt Taranaki was formed. The museum is free entry and is open seven days a week.
Location: 1 Ariki Street
© NZPocketGuide.com2. The Govett-Brewster Art Gallery
The architecture of The Govett-Brewster Art Gallery is a masterpiece in itself. If that doesn’t tempt you inside then maybe the innovative and provocative works of giant kinetic sculptures just might! While there are numerous temporary exhibitions, the centre mainly focusses on the works of Len Lye, a filmmaker, artist and kinetic sculptor. The gallery is free entry and is open every day except Tuesdays.
Location: 42 Queen Street
© NZPocketGuide.com3. Fun Ho! National Toy Museum
Kids and kids-at-heart will love this museum dedicated to toys. Kiwis, this will definitely appeal to your nostalgic side with toys from as early as 1940 – some pieces of true Kiwiana! There are more than 3,000 toys on display and it’s sometimes possible to see toys being made. Catch the Fun Ho! National Toy Museum open daily with a small entrance fee. See more like this in the 10 Things to Do in New Plymouth with Kids.
Location: 25 Rata Street, Inglewood
© NZPocketGuide.com4. The Gables Colonial Hospital
Mix history and art at The Gables Colonial Hospital and the Taranaki Society of Arts Gallery. The heritage building set in luxuriant gardens was built in 1848 and now holds artworks that are for sale. You’ll also find a small museum with medical relics on display. The Gables is open on the weekends and public holiday afternoons.
Location: Brooklands Drive
© denisbin on Flickr5. Taranaki Aviation Transport & Technology Museum (TATATM)
Check out some of Taranaki’s old technologies, such as early computers, early radios, printing press and agricultural machines. There are a few interactive experiences to be had too, from operating a telephone exchange and using a vacuum monetary transfer across the museum. The TATATM Museum is open on the weekends and public holidays. Entry is a small fee.
Location: Kent Road, off State Highway 3 between New Plymouth and Inglewood
© MaxPixel6. TSB Bowls New Zealand Museum
Visit the only registered museum dedicated to lawn bowls in the world right here in New Plymouth! That’s right, the TSB Bowls New Zealand Museum located by the bowling club contains a vast array of bowling memorabilia from more than 50 countries!
Location: 157 Brooklands Road
© Dramatic on Wikipedia7. KINA NZ Design + Art Space
Check out the latest exhibition at the KINA NZ Design Art Space, changing monthly with works from established and emerging artists. The centre also sells creative gifts, from ceramics to jewellery. It’s worth popping in while shopping in New Plymouth.
Location: 101 Devon Street West
© MaxPixel8. Korver Molloy Gallery
Don’t go on a Surf Highway 45 road trip without stopping by the Korver Molloy Gallery. Check out the indoor fine art exhibition, as well as a sculpture walk through manicured gardens. The Korver Molloy Gallery is open on weekends.
Location: The Old Okato Cheese Factory, Tataraimaka
© NZPocketGuide.com9. The White Sail Gallery
Pick up something unique and New Zealand-made at The White Sail Gallery at Breakwater Bay. The gallery features works from Taranaki and New Zealand artists, including paintings, pottery and sculptures. The gallery is open seven days a week in summer and Tuesday to Sunday in winter.
Location: 35 Ocean View Parade
© Pexels10. Percy Thomson Gallery (Stratford)
Keen for more? Next stop, head to the town of Stratford and it’s popular Percy Thomson Gallery! The space shows ever-changing exhibitions of contemporary art. Find out more about this gallery and others around the region in our 10 Best Galleries & Museums in Taranaki.
Location: Miranda Street, Stratford
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