There’s more to the Bay of Islands, Northland, than its beautiful coastline. Beyond the beaches and sheltered bays lies a region rich in creativity, character and experiences worth travelling for. From contemporary art and beautiful gardens to local food, wine and the people who make this place special, spring is a wonderful time to discover another side of Northland.
This October, that creative spirit takes centre stage at Little Black Gallery in Kerikeri, where New Light brings together more than 20 artists and makers from Northland and across New Zealand. Opening on Thursday 22 October, the exhibition celebrates fresh perspectives through contemporary painting, sculpture, ceramics, jewellery, photography and finely crafted woodwork.
From the exuberant colour of Rachel Barber’s paintings to Catherine Dunn’s atmospheric explorations of light and Liz McAuliffe’s intricate paper sculptures, the exhibition offers a glimpse of the diversity and imagination of contemporary artists.
“There’s a great deal happening in this part of the country that doesn’t always make the headlines,” says gallery owner Anna Hamilton. “Arts and culture bring people together, support local enterprise and give visitors a deeper connection with the places they explore. That’s a side of Northland worth celebrating.”
And the inspiration doesn’t end at the gallery door.
Set within the established gardens of Treghan Lodge. Little Black Gallery is part of a peaceful garden setting where winding paths, mature trees, seasonal planting and sculpture invite visitors to linger. The gardens will be open to the public over Labour Weekend, Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 October, with the gallery also open on the Monday, Labour Day.
The following weekend brings the popular Kerikeri Garden Safari, another opportunity to discover the beauty and individuality of the region’s gardens.
For those tempted to turn a day trip into something longer, Treghan Lodge offers private, self-contained accommodation tucked among the gardens, just minutes from central Kerikeri. Its Art & Garden Escape combines a relaxed stay with time to enjoy the exhibition, explore local gardens and discover more of the Bay of Islands.
An invitation to stay a little longer, explore a little further and discover another side of the Bay of Islands.
Discover more at treghan.co.nz
