New Zealand may be considered a young country, but it has a wide array of literature, performing arts, museums, art galleries, and the influence of the culture of the Maori people to offer the world. Even the most passionate of art lovers will leave Queenstown happy. There are public attractions where you can leisurely browse and enjoy both historic and modern art and cultural exhibits. Most public galleries highlight local and regional artists, but many also display international and national collections as well. In order to be sure that you can relax and enjoy your holiday, bus hire in Queenstown will meet your needs – no matter how large or small your group.
Leave the driving to experienced local drivers. They can ensure everyone will arrive safely and on time; the professional drivers know if there are traffic delays, current road works, and have knowledge of all local routes. Passengers will arrive at their art destination feeling stress-free and comfortable. Savour the perfect holiday. Here are just a few of the many art attractions you can enjoy while travelling through Queenstown and the surrounding areas.
The Lakes District Museum in Arrowtown
Just twenty minutes from Queenstown, this is considered the best small museum of history in New Zealand. Arrowtown was founded during the 1860s gold rush and is still an active and vibrant town today. The museum, located on Buckingham Street, has a great reputation for their changing historical displays and art exhibits, their innovative presentations, and supporting the community’s heritage work. Exhibits also include an authentic display of Maori crafts and artwork and a collection of items and tid-bits of the town’s Chinese and European settlers.
Central Art Gallery
This gallery is located on Beach Street, across from the Steamer Wharf. Fine art’s more traditional aspects are emphasised here with showcases from such fine artists as Nick Fedaeff, Peter Beadle, Dale Gallagher, Mark Rodgers, Richard Wilson, and more. It is usually open from 10 AM to 10 PM, weekdays, and 11 AM to 10 PM on weekends.
Queenstown Arts Centre
Located in the heart of Queenstown, the Queenstown Art Centre was established in 1981. This unique venue was built for area artists to create and exhibit art and then share the creative experience with fellow art lovers. These studios offer visitors the opportunity to talk with the artists about their artwork and what inspires them. Works are for sale to the general public.
Artbay Gallery
Come to Artbay and start a lifelong relationship with formerly unknown artists and their work. New exhibits are curated every month and each one shares a special story for visitors to experience. View and reflect on the documentaries produced on each exhibiting artist and learn about their inspirations and processes.
Cloakroom Gallery
Located at the corner of Ballarat and Stanley streets, this gallery is part of Queenstown Arts Centre and home to Queenstown Art Society. Partly funded by grants, the gallery is more community focused and inclusive, and less of a dealership. Both visiting artists’ and local artists’ exhibits are featured here. Though occasionally open from 11 AM until 4 PM on Saturdays, it is most frequently open Thursday and Friday during those same hours.
The Romer Gallery
This gallery showcases the works of Stephan Romer and his beautiful landscape photographs of New Zealand. Romer combines his technical expertise of commercial photography (he has worked for Mercedes Benz, Porsche, and Aston Martin automobile companies) with his eye for natural beauty. Educated in Germany, he decided to make New Zealand his home a decade ago after falling in love with the country’s stunning landscape. He brings the beauty of the wilderness to the viewer in a very intimate way.
Silver Fern Gallery
This tiny, owner-operated gallery is located on Church Lane and sells New Zealand related merchandise as well as art. Though it’s most expensive works can sell for $9000, the $10, budget friendly starting price applies to numerous in-stock selections including many local artists’ original artwork. Ceramics, Maori carvings, and landscape paintings are among those available at Silver Fern Gallery.
Wilson Gallery
Tim Wilson, one of the premier artists of New Zealand, is featured in his namesake gallery located on Beach Street. The drama of the emotion and mood of a South Island landscape was his inspiration and is evident through the passionate engagement involved in his light filled, often misty paintings. Art lovers will be enthralled by the lovingly but finely administered details of his works.
The David John Gallery
Born in Liverpool, England and trained at the Liverpool College of Art, David John left his home in 1969 and spent ten years living and traveling to South Africa, Ireland, Canada, the Canary Islands, and Australia. He finally settled in New Zealand in 1979 with his family and became an award-winning portrait artist, playwright, and actor. This area has provided inspiration for his poetry, paintings, and stage plays. Delight in his artwork on display at his gallery in Arrowtown.
Milford Galleries Queenstown
Centrally located, this is the place to go if you are interested in seeing New Zealand’s best contemporary art. Sculpture, paintings, ceramics, and glass work from many of New Zealand’s most noted contemporary artists are on display with new and exciting works from emerging local artists. There are also pieces from the secondary market from around the world. Knowledgeable staff is well-versed in all matters relating to collecting and purchasing art.
Come to Queenstown Today!
Explore the Southern Lakes region and Queenstown’s rich cultural heritage during your visit. Learn about the area’s amazing history with a look into early settler life through their old farmsteads and gold mines. Experience the rich art and culture of the Maori people. Discover the captivating and unforgettable natural scenery that is the backbone of this region. Browse local art and talk with the artists themselves in dozens of galleries around town.
The best part of your holiday is being able to travel throughout the region with friends and family and never have unnecessary stress or issues. Just book Queenstown bus hire and let us do all the work! Whether you’re travelling for business or pleasure, be sure to spend a day enjoying the incredible art and culture of this area.