One of Aotearoa New Zealand’s finest art institutions, Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū anchors the city centre in a striking undulating glass building that’s worth admiring before you even step inside.
On the forecourt, Michael Parekowhai’s beloved ‘Chapman’s Homer’ – a life-sized bronze bull planted atop a grand piano – has become a symbol of Christchurch’s post-earthquake resilience, and one of the most photographed works of public art in the country. Don’t miss Martin Creed’s neon ‘Everything is Going to be Alright’ along the Worcester Boulevard facade, best seen after dark.
Inside, Bill Culbert’s Bebop – a kinetic ceiling installation of fluorescent tubes, chairs and wire – illuminates the grand staircase, setting the tone for two floors of historical and contemporary work drawn from the gallery’s permanent collection and visiting exhibitions. Pioneering figures including Māori artist Dr Buck Nin and the iconic Frances Hodgkins rub shoulders with international names, while the programme of artist talks, films, and children’s activities keeps things lively year-round.
Even the underground car park deserves a look – take the elevator up into the gallery and enjoy Séraphine Pick’s specially commissioned utopian watercolour, transforming a mundane ride into something quietly magical.
Cnr Worcester Boulevard & Montreal Street, Ōtautahi
christchurchartgallery.org.nz
