OPENING NIGHT: THURSDAY 30 APRIL, 5-9PM
Auckland’s Biggest Night of Contemporary Art
Be among the first to experience Aotearoa Art Fair 2026 as the doors open and the art world comes together for one unforgettable night!
On Thursday 30 April, 5–9pm, the Viaduct Events Centre transforms into the centre of the art world as artists, collectors, curators, and art lovers gather to celebrate the opening of the Fair. Art, music, champagne, and extraordinary works from 200 artists across 25 countries. Expect a dynamic evening of art, music, conversation, and celebration – the perfect way to start the Fair.
Tickets are limited and sell out every year. First Release Tickets End Friday 20 April!
YOUR OPENING NIGHT EXPERIENCE
What To Expect
Be among the first through the doors before the Fair opens for the weekend.
Explore presentations from 60 leading galleries
Discover works by 200+ artists from 25 countries
Experience live performances and music throughout the evening
Meet artists, curators, collectors, and fellow art lovers
Pop up bars, enjoy drinks while browsing the galleries
YOU WON’T WANT TO MISS THIS!
Opening Night Spectacle: The Huxleys Perform Live
Opening Night is set to become a spectacle as internationally acclaimed performance duo The Huxleys take over the Fair with a live performance of Love Is in the Air, presented by MARS Gallery.
Known for their outrageous costumes, theatrical performances, and cult following, the Australian artists bring colour, glamour, and high drama to the Fair’s biggest night.
Expect an electric atmosphere as collectors, artists, and art lovers gather to celebrate the opening of Aotearoa Art Fair!
A Celebration of Art and Culture
Opening Night is where the Fair comes alive. Across three levels of the waterfront venue, galleries unveil new works while artists, collectors and art lovers gather to celebrate the start of the Fair.
Expect music, lively conversation, unexpected discoveries, and extraordinary artworks at every turn.
The Fair at Its Most Vibrant
The Aotearoa Art Fair is New Zealand’s premier contemporary art fair and one of the region’s most anticipated cultural events, bringing together leading galleries and artists for four days of discovery.
But there is nothing quite like Opening Night! For one evening only, the Fair buzzes with celebration as the doors open and the art world gathers to mark the beginning of another remarkable edition.
Live DJ Set
A special soundtrack sets the tone throughout the evening as DJ Alisha brings her 15+ years of experience spinning at events across the country and abroad.
Known for her dynamic, multi-genre sets, Alisha knows how to read the room and keep the energy high. Whether setting the mood for a relaxed evening among the galleries or building the atmosphere as the night unfolds, her DJ set perfectly complements the vibrant celebration of Aotearoa’s art scene.
Raise A Glass
Browsing art is even better with a drink in hand. Throughout Opening Night, our beverage partners offer the perfect accompaniment as guests move between galleries and installations.
Champagne Pommery, renowned for its elegance and craftsmanship since 1836, is available at Fair Bars. Blending grapes, passion, and creativity, Champagne Pommery remains devoted to one goal: the quest for constant perfection.
Two Rivers Wine invites visitors to taste some of New Zealand’s finest vineyards, showcasing the intense fruit flavours of Marlborough through elegant wines that reflect purity and a true sense of place in every glass poured.
For something zesty and distinctive, Four Pillars Gin offers refreshing botanical blends crafted with classic ingredients and unexpected notes.
Join Us for Opening Night
Thursday 30 April
5–9pm
Viaduct Events Centre
Be among the first to experience Aotearoa Art Fair 2026.