Aigantighe Art Gallery

Its name is Scottish Gaelic for ‘at home’ and is pronounced ‘egg and tie’.

The Aigantighe holds an extensive permanent collection of New Zealand and international art from the 16th century to the present day. Its collection of British Victorian paintings is particularly strong, while national favourites Charles Goldie, Frances Hodgkins and Colin McCahon are also very well represented.

A continually changing display of works from this collection is shown in the original Edwardian house, which initially formed the art gallery when it was donated to the city in 1956.

The modern wing displays the work of local artists and also hosts travelling exhibitions from around the country. The gallery offers plenty of activities for children, from art books and drawing materials to dress-ups and art hunts.

Aigantighe Art Gallery’s park-like grounds are always open to the public, featuring a wide variety of permanent sculptures set amongst established trees and gardens. The gallery is open Tuesday to Friday 10am – 4pm, Weekends 12 – 4pm. Entry is free.