ArtandCulture, Auckland

Mitai Maori Village is an indigenous cultural experience incorporating a traditional hangi meal, cultural performance, warrior canoe and sacred freshwater spring. Nau Mai, Haere Mai - Welcome! An evening at Mitai will give you an authentic introduction to Maori Culture, leaving you inspired as well as entertained. Learn about our history, carvings and ta moko (tattoo art). Be captivated by the displays of weaponry and combat, coupled with the grace and beauty of the poi dance, followed by a spine tingling haka finale. Be enthralled by the natural bush setting where you will see warriors in traditional dress padding a waka (ancient canoe), and don’t miss your only opportunity to see glow worms in the Rotorua area. https://www.rotoruanz.com/visit/see-and-do/maori-culture/mitai-maori-village-(1)

3D Trick Art Gallery is the first and only 3D Trick Art Gallery in New Zealand. It offers an educational, creative and imaginative experience to the visitors of all age. In the gallery, you can create over 50 masterpieces of your own. 3D Trick Art Gallery has been rated by TripAdvisor as one of the Top 5 most recommended out of 118 must-see attractions in Rotorua. So come and have fun with your creativity and imagination. https://www.rotoruanz.com/visit/see-and-do/museums-galleries/3d-trick-art-gallery

Discover Rotorua's rich culture, volatile landscape and legendary figures in this ‘must-see' museum. Explore the fascinating stories of Rotorua’s beautiful Government Gardens during the free walking tours hosted by Rotorua Museum guides who won the TrustPower Rotorua Lakes Council Community Supreme Award for their Outside the Walls walking tours. Despite Rotorua Museum being closed for earthquake strengthening until 2021, Museum guides have continued taking tours, sharing the fascinating history of the area that became known as the Government Gardens. Visitors learn about New Zealand’s most photographed building, the iconic Rotorua Bath House*, from spa to restaurant, cabaret to a night club and finally home to Rotorua Museum. Their stories include the Spanish Mission/Art Deco style Blue Baths, almost as famous as the Bath House and those of the other heritage buildings in the vicinity. https://www.rotoruanz.com/visit/see-and-do/museums-galleries/rotorua-museum

Taupo Museum is a delightful treasure trove packed with fascinating exhibits that capture the spirit of New Zealand and beyond. Imagine wandering through displays of Māori artifacts, each piece telling its own unique story. Don't miss the charming Kiwiana caravan exhibit, which is as 'cute as' it sounds, showcasing the quirky side of Kiwi culture. One of the highlights is the 'virtual' tour of the breathtaking Tongariro Alpine Crossing, offering a glimpse into one of the world's most stunning hiking routes. Art enthusiasts will find solace in the museum's art galleries, where local artists exhibit their creative flair. And if you're a fan of fishing tales, you're in for a treat with stories that capture the essence of Taupo's fishing heritage. Nestled in the heart of Taupo, this museum offers more than just exhibits. It's a slice of local life, giving you a taste of the area's cultural and natural wonders. The museum also features the Ora Garden of Wellbeing, a serene space inspired by the geothermal landscapes of the region. Whether you're a history buff, art lover, or nature enthusiast, Taupo Museum promises a memorable experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for this corner of the world.

Opened in April 2013, the 4th Wall Theatre is a breathtaking showcase of contemporary design. Over two years, it was transformed from an original church into a masterpiece that stands today as a testament to vision and artistic brilliance. Just a quick five-minute jaunt from the Central Business District, the theatre offers the convenience of ample off-street parking. It features three levels and a cabaret-style seating arrangement that invites you to get cozy and enjoy the show. The 4th Wall Theatre is committed to enriching cultural life and advancing the theatrical arts, sharing its wonders with as many people as possible. Their vision, "Theatre Beyond Expectation," speaks to their mission to produce world-class storytelling in a lively celebration of live performance. Beyond Expectation isn't just a tagline; it's a promise to challenge, innovate, and exceed the expectations of audiences and peers alike. As they say, "A town without a theatre is like a town without a heart." So, why not be part of this exhilarating journey? The 4th Wall Theatre not only offers captivating performances but also hosts workshops and events that invite you to tap into your own creativity. You might find yourself attending an acting class or a behind-the-scenes tour, discovering the magic that happens offstage. Whether you're a theater enthusiast or simply looking for an unforgettable evening, the 4th Wall Theatre has something special just for you.

Napier's Art Deco town centre is unique. Rivalled only by Miami beachfront Streamline Moderne, it is the most comprehensive Art Deco styled town in the world. Fascination with cinema, Hollywood and exotic imagery from Africa and South America mixed with expressions of new and exciting transport engineering; railway, steamships, cars and airplanes, is what gives Art Deco its distinct look. Other period styles such as Spanish Mission and Stripped Classical were also tested and mixed in. Notable Architect J. A. Louis Hay also experimented with the palette of Frank Lloyd Wright's Prairie Style. Despite this altogether global influence, the town retains its kiwi nature in building and street scale, bright colour, and New Zealand's typically quirky and innovative appropriation of international trends. An architecture that embodies an era's optimism in the face of such a tragedy; enjoy this town's many architectural treasures with a variety of walks and guided tours, or take it in at your own pace as you stroll down the palm-lined Marine Parade. http://www.napier.nz.com/art-deco.aspx

Eighteen pou, each representing an ancestor from marae across the Heretaunga district, stand proudly in the heart of Hastings. These carved figures offer a tangible link to the region's rich cultural heritage. It's like stepping into a living museum that celebrates the stories and legacies of the past. The craftsmanship is stunning, with intricate details that each tell their own story. As you wander around, you can almost feel the whispers of history carried on the breeze. This central gathering spot is not just about the past; it's a lively meeting point for the community today. If you're lucky, you might catch a local event or celebration happening here. The experience is both enlightening and deeply moving.

The award winning Lakes District Museum is set in the historic gold mining town of Arrowtown and presents an authentic picture of early life in the Wakatipu District. Displays portray pre- European Maori, European settlement and the exciting goldrush era of the mid 1800's. The museum has an attached gallery showing changing art and history related exhibitions.An excellent bookshop/giftshop is also attached. https://www.queenstownnz.co.nz/things-to-do/culture-and-heritage/museums/listing/lakes-district-museum

Seat of the archdiocese of Nouméa since 1966, Saint Joseph’s Roman Catholic cathedral was built between 1887 and 1897 by a penitentiary workforce and following the construction plans of a former convict named Labulle. Consecrated in 1890, before the end of its construction, the cathedral is laid out as a 56-meter-long Latin cross, with a 36-meter-large transept. 15.5 meters high, the building's south west facade presents two 25-meter-high towers on both sides of the porch. Both towers, the buttresses and the bay frames are made of cut stone, the other walls are made of lime-rendered rubble stone. https://www.newcaledonia.travel/au/noumea/saint-josephs-cathedral

Looking for the perfect introduction to local Kanak culture? Plan a visit to the Tjibaou Cultural Centre in Nouméa, where art, history, culture, knowledge and natural beauty combine to delight and educate adults and children alike. Housed within beautifully designed buildings and landscaped grounds, the centre sits just minutes from the city, offering a fantastic selection of permanent and temporary exhibitions to discover. A visit to the centre is a must for any Nouméa itinerary. https://www.newcaledonia.travel/au/noumea/tjibaou-cultural-center

Built in the 1970s, the museum of New Caledonia asserts, in the late 1980s, its vocation as a museum of society and its objectives as to the enhancement of the Kanak civilization and the preservation of its heritage. Since then, this museum exhibits one of the most beautiful collections of Kanak art in the world, including monumental, and the most complete from the point of view of the themes it allows to address. In view of the Kanak collections of major European museums, the place occupied by the New Caledonia museum in the international museum world is particularly impressive. https://museenouvellecaledonie.nc/le-musee/presentation-du-musee

Manning Entertainment Centre offer first class facilities for the performing arts, from school productions and amateur theatre to artists of national and international acclaim. The Manning Entertainment Centre is a 505 seat theatre in Taree, New South Wales and serves the residents of the Manning Valley, Great Lakes, Gloucester and Camden Haven regions. https://www.visitnsw.com/destinations/north-coast/forster-and-taree-area/taree/attractions/manning-entertainment-centre

The Manning Regional Art Gallery provides a range of cultural and artistic experiences to residents and visitors in the Manning Valley. The gallery is committed to curating more than 12 exhibitions each year and is responsible for providing access to touring exhibitions otherwise unavailable to residents of the Manning and surrounds. https://www.visitnsw.com/destinations/north-coast/forster-and-taree-area/taree/attractions/manning-regional-art-gallery

Located in a lovely historical building, Taree Craft Cottage displays and sells a diverse range of quality items handcrafted by their talented members. This is the ideal place to shop for that perfect gift for any occasion. https://www.visitnsw.com/destinations/north-coast/forster-and-taree-area/taree/attractions/taree-craft-centre

Established in 1827, the Australian Museum (AM) is Australia’s first museum and has been at the forefront of scientific research, collection and education for more than 185 years. Through exhibitions and other public programs the AM continues to inform and amaze generations of visitors about the unique flora, fauna and cultures of Australia and the Pacific. https://www.sydney.com/destinations/sydney/sydney-city/city-centre/attractions/australian-museum

Blending ancient and modernist influences, the Sydney Opera House stands proudly on a site that has been sacred to the Gadigal people for millennia. Its sculptural elegance has elevated it to an icon of twentieth-century architecture. As US architect Frank Gehry once said, it “changed the image of an entire country.” The Opera House isn't just a pretty face; it hosts over 1,500 performances each year, from opera and ballet to rock concerts and theater, making it a cultural hub for both locals and visitors. When you visit, make sure to explore the nearby Royal Botanic Garden, where you can enjoy stunning views of the harbor, or grab a bite at the Opera Bar, which offers a fantastic selection of local seafood and an unbeatable atmosphere.

With many things to do and see, a great way to see The Rocks is on foot. There are markets, museums, galleries and delicious food and wine experiences. Take a self-guided tour or join The Rocks Walking Tours. The I’m Free Tour starts at 6pm from outside Cadmans Cottage, built in 1816. Dave’s Pub Walks will take you to the colonial pubs in the area. The Rocks Dreaming Aboriginal Heritage Tour provides insights into indigenous culture. In a restored colonial sandstone warehouse is The Rocks Discovery Museum. You can also hire bicycles and pedal around the harbour foreshore. https://www.sydney.com/destinations/sydney/sydney-city/the-rocks

For amazing entertainment, delicious waterside dining and incredible wildlife, Darling Harbour is the perfect destination in the heart of Sydney. Meet penguins and dugongs at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium and get up close to koalas and a giant saltwater crocodile at WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo. You’ll find plenty more exciting things to do and see, from Sydney Harbour cruises and tall ships at the Australian National Maritime Museum to the Chinese Garden of Friendship, a tranquil haven. You can even walk the red carpet with your favourite star at Madame Tussauds, a wax museum. https://www.sydney.com/destinations/sydney/sydney-city/darling-harbour

Visit or stay at Nan Tien Temple, the largest Buddhist Temple in the Southern Hemisphere. Nan Tien is very different from most tourist attractions because there is so much on offer. The visual delights of grandeur architecture, art and culture including unique exhibitions and festivals, Buddhist festivals, vegetarian culinary delights, educational and healthy lifestyle classes and retreats, accommodation, top class conference and auditorium facilities. There is also the spiritual and religious experience that is unforgettable, and even life changing for some. Pilgrim Lodge, Wollongong's most unique accommodation setting is a 100 room facility, which is open all year round and located in the grounds of the Temple. The lodge overlooks the lotus pond, the peaceful Temple, splendid gardens, the beautiful rolling hills, and famous escarpment of the Illawarra. https://www.visitnsw.com/destinations/south-coast/wollongong-and-surrounds/wollongong/attractions/nan-tien-temple

Lismore Regional Gallery’s Mission is to facilitate the exchange of ideas locally and nationally through a distinctive and innovative program of exhibitions and events. Lismore Regional Gallery is the oldest cultural organisation in the Northern Rivers. Established in 1953, and opened by then Director of the Art Gallery of NSW, Hal Missingham, they have played an active role in the cultural life of their community for generations. https://www.visitnsw.com/destinations/north-coast/lismore-area/lismore/attractions/lismore-regional-gallery

Come and discover the hidden underground street art culture of The Back Alley Gallery in Lismore. The Back Alley Gallery is transforming the laneways of Lismore. You cannot walk down the streets without finding something new on the walls. There are over sixty artworks including large scale murals, graffiti art, paste ups, stencils and installations. This outdoor art gallery is here for the community to enjoy and to see that street art is alive, thriving and an important part of the local art scene. https://www.visitnsw.com/destinations/north-coast/lismore-area/lismore/attractions/the-back-alley-gallery

The award-winning Richmond River Historical Society Museum has one of the best historical collections in regional Australia. The museum is located in the heritage-listed former Lismore Municipal Building, with the main exhibition displayed within the old Council Chamber. Panels of local rainforest timbers line the walls of the museum. https://www.visitnsw.com/destinations/north-coast/lismore-area/lismore/attractions/lismore-historical-society-and-museum

Serpentine Gallery is a local artist's initiative dedicated to showcasing the diverse artistic creations of local emerging artists. The gallery supports artists of all mediums and is dedicated to building a strong artist community in the Northern Rivers. The gallery has approximately 180 artists on their register and supports all styles of art. The gallery has been operating since 2006 and has developed a reputation for displaying emerging artists who are still raw, who are not affected and are freely expressing themselves. https://www.visitnsw.com/destinations/north-coast/lismore-area/lismore/attractions/serpentine-gallery

The Goulburn Regional Art Gallery is now over 30 years old. During this period it has curated and presented a rich diversity of exhibitions and public programs and toured its exhibitions throughout Australia. The Gallery has a solid reputation for providing the region with the opportunity to experience and participate in the best of local and national art. The Gallery's primary role being to promote and develop contemporary regional and national art, and to provide a visual art and craft educational resource. https://www.visitnsw.com/destinations/country-nsw/goulburn-area/goulburn/attractions/goulburn-regional-art-gallery

EG Twist is a respected Australian artist who works in ink, pastel, watercolour, charcoal and coloured pencils who has been displaying work in art galleries since 1983. His work has been exhibited in Paris, France and New York, USA and he has held successful solo exhibitions in the Blue Mountains, Sydney and the Southern Highlands. The Creative Eye Art Gallery is an exciting opportunity to view a large body of work by this very experienced and talented artist. https://www.visitnsw.com/destinations/country-nsw/goulburn-area/goulburn/attractions/creative-eye-art-gallery

Nestled on the beautiful banks of Brisbane River (beside New Farm Park) the former power station has become a distinct landmark, both as a stunning industrial creation and as a hub for everything creative. The Brisbane City Council New Farm Powerhouse was designed by Brisbane City Council Tramway architect, Roy Rusden Ogg. At its peak in the post-war years it supplied electricity for the largest tram network in the southern hemisphere. As trams were replaced by buses, it was decommissioned in 1971. The redeveloped Brisbane Powerhouse was designed by Brisbane City Council architect Peter Roy and was opened on 10 May, 2000 by Lord Mayor Jim Soorley. Seven years later the building underwent a further stage of development, re-opening on 6 June 2007 by Lord Mayor Campbell Newman with increased audience capacities, restaurant and bar facilities as well as functions and conference spaces. Brisbane Powerhouse boasts a flexible 400 - 700 seat 'end on' stage theatre, an intimate 200 seat apron stage theatre, an 800 viewer open platform, two restaurants, conference and rehearsal rooms and offices. https://www.visitbrisbane.com.au/brisbane/things-to-do/arts-and-entertainment/heritage-and-architecture/brisbane-powerhouse?sc_lang=en-au

South Bank Parklands is Queensland’s premier lifestyle and cultural destination, open 365 days a year. Its world-class entertainment and leisure facilities include South Bank Parklands, Little Stanley Street, Grey Street and South Bank Cultural Precinct. South Bank Parklands covering 17 hectares of riverfront land, the free swimming facilities, walking tracks, licensed picnic areas and more. It is also home to a year-round calendar of events and plenty of eateries, including the award-winning River Quay. Little Stanley Street known as one of Brisbane’s most popular eat-streets, is bursting with more than 30 cafes, bars and restaurants offering an array of cuisines styles including Vietnamese, Italian and more. Like its sister street Little Stanley, Grey Street is a foodie haven - a stroll along the street will offer you plenty of places to eat. Grey Street is also home to the South Bank Cineplex, which is renowned for its cheap prices. The South Bank Cultural Precinct has something to suit all ages. It includes the Queensland Performance Arts Centre; Queensland Museum and Sciencentre; Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art; and State Library of Queensland. https://www.visitbrisbane.com.au/brisbane/things-to-do/shopping/south-bank-parklands?sc_lang=en-au

Queensland Museum is the State’s centre for natural history, cultural heritage, science and human achievement. Home to permanent and changing exhibitions and collections, the museum also provides innovative public programs, educational experiences plus holiday and early child hood activities. The Queensland Museum is also home to the Sciencentre, where visitors can take part in exciting - and educational - kinetic and interactive displays and experiments. https://www.visitbrisbane.com.au/brisbane/things-to-do/arts-and-entertainment/galleries/queensland-museum-and-sciencentre?sc_lang=en-au

Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) is located across two riverside buildings in South Bank’s Cultural Precinct. QAGOMA presents an evolving program of Australian and international exhibitions, with a focus on the contemporary art of Australia, Asia and the Pacific. Immerse the family in creativity at the Children’s Art Centre and see the best in international film and video at the Australian Cinémathèque. QAGOMA offers cafes, modern dining and shopping to complete your visit. https://www.visitbrisbane.com.au/brisbane/things-to-do/arts-and-entertainment/galleries/queensland-art-gallery-and-gallery-of-modern-art--qagoma?sc_lang=en-au

Nestled right in the heart of Brisbane's bustling CBD, Roma Street Parkland is a lush 16-hectare oasis that feels like a world away from the city's hustle and bustle. Conveniently located next to the Brisbane Transit Centre and Roma Street Station, this gem is renowned as the largest subtropical garden in any city center worldwide. Picture this: grassy picnic spots perfect for lazy afternoons, vibrant subtropical plant displays, and flower beds bursting with color. Fern groves offer a cool escape, while rocky peninsulas add a rugged charm. Families will love the barbecue areas and playgrounds, making it a fantastic spot for visitors of all ages. No matter where you turn, there's a visual treat waiting to be discovered. One of the parkland's standout features is its captivating collection of artworks. Back when the site was first developed, 16 talented Queensland artists were tasked with creating 15 unique pieces for the park. These works, ranging from sculptures and mosaics to paving, bronzes, and murals, each tell their own story. For those eager to explore, there's a self-guided walk that takes you on a journey past each of these artistic wonders. It's a delightful way to spend an afternoon, blending nature and creativity in one unforgettable experience. For those interested in local wildlife, keep an eye out for the bustling birdlife that calls the park home. You'll often spot colorful lorikeets and other native birds flitting through the trees, adding an extra layer of life and vibrancy to your visit. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, an art lover, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat in the city, Roma Street Parkland offers a little slice of paradise for everyone.

Trove Canberra is a collective of artists, designers and makers local to the Canberra region with a hidden shopfront in the heart of Canberra's city centre. All products are made in Australia. Trove members work in a diverse range of mediums and create a wide selection of products which make fabulous gifts, lovely additions to your home, or something special just for you. https://visitcanberra.com.au/attractions/58a18f0c0f46d472216b972b/trove-canberra

Aboriginal Dreamings Gallery in the heart of Gold Creek Village is a must-see destination for Aboriginal art collectors. Aboriginal Dreamings Gallery has been bringing Aboriginal art to Canberra since 1989. Aboriginal Dreamings Gallery has an extensive collection of ethically sourced, original Aboriginal art from most Aboriginal art regions. A feature of the Gallery's collection is the paintings by famous Old Masters comprising important artworks by Rover Thomas, Emily Kame Kngwarreye, Clifford Possum Tjapaltjarri, Turkey Tolson Tjupurrula, Ronnie Tjampitjinpa, Ada Bird Petyarre and Eunice Napangardi. https://visitcanberra.com.au/attractions/56b23b8eb042386245d4312e/aboriginal-dreamings-gallery

Located on Hobart's historic waterfront, the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery (TMAG) has recently undergone a spectacular $30 million redevelopment. The second oldest museum in Australia, TMAG has its origins in the collections of the country's oldest scientific society, the Royal Society of Tasmania, which was established in 1843. Opened in March 2013, the redevelopment includes more than 2,000 square metres of new public and exhibition spaces, a centralised visitor services hub and a new Courtyard Café. https://www.discovertasmania.com.au/attraction/tasmanianmuseumandartgallery