What’s On

Alongside the galleries, Aotearoa Art Fair offers a lively programme of talks, installations, performances and special events. From guided tours and hands-on workshops to delicious dining and the Opening Night celebration, there’s plenty to explore.

Discover events, talks and activities happening throughout the Fair.

FAIR PROGRAMME AND EXPERIENCES

Sculpture Trail

Viaduct Harbour presents the Aotearoa Art Fair Sculpture Trail, on display and free to the public from 10 April until 4 May. In association with Auckland Live, the Trail brings together a lineup of 19 extraordinary artists pushing the boundaries of three-dimensional work throughout Viaduct Harbour. Set against the backdrop of Auckland’s beautiful waterfront, this is a unique opportunity to experience art in a whole new dimension. Proudly supported by Auckland Council Events and the city centre targeted rate. More details will be announced in late March!

Opening Night

The Aotearoa Art Fair’s Opening Night, on Thursday 30 April from 5-9PM, is Auckland’s biggest art event of the year! Join us at the glittering Viaduct Events Centre for a celebratory evening dedicated to toasting Aotearoa’s vibrant art community. Limited ticket availability!

Let’s Talk Art!

One of the most popular parts of the Fair, Let’s Talk Art presented by Aon brings together artists, designers and collectors for fun, lively, and engaging sessions. Hear conversations that offer insight, ideas and behind-the-scenes perspectives on contemporary art and culture. Make sure you arrive early, admission to talks is first come, first served.

Installations

Encounter large-scale and immersive works that transform spaces and invite you to experience art in unexpected ways. Throughout the Viaduct Events Centre, installations create moments to pause, look closer and see contemporary art from a new perspective, with works by some of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most celebrated artists.

Performance Art

Live performances unfold across the Fair, bringing spontaneous moments that surprise and energise the space. Experience art as it happens, right in front of you!

Artist Talks

Step into the creative process with our popular Artist Talk series, where artists share the stories, inspirations, and experiences behind their works. With a range of perspectives and personal insights, these talks offer a unique opportunity to connect with the minds behind the art on display.

Guided Tours

Discover the stories behind the artworks on a free guided tour led by art experts. These relaxed, accessible tours offer insight into artists, ideas and highlights across the Fair, and are a great way to deepen your experience.

Fair Dining

Browsing and buying art is hungry (and thirsty) work. Our dining spaces are presented in partnership with Savor Group, one of Auckland’s most loved hospitality teams, behind favourites such as Amano, Ebisu, Azabu, Non Solo Pizza and Bivacco. Visitors can relax, recharge and enjoy great food and drinks throughout the day.

Dedicated Fair Bookshop

Visit the dedicated art and design bookshop by Lamplight Books, offering a carefully curated selection of titles on contemporary art, design, architecture and culture. It’s the perfect place to browse, discover and take home something inspiring.

GALLERY SECTORS

GALLERIES

The Galleries sector brings together leading galleries presenting solo and group exhibitions by established and emerging artists. Visitors can explore a wide range of contemporary practice across painting, sculpture, photography, installation and more, and discover artists shaping the art of today.

FUTURES

Futures highlights emerging galleries and artist-run spaces, offering a platform for new voices and ambitious ideas. Often one of the most dynamic areas of the Fair, this sector is a place to discover artists at an early stage of their careers.

WORKS ON PAPER

Works on Paper presents drawing, printmaking, photography and editions, showcasing the richness and versatility of these mediums. The sector also offers one of the most accessible entry points for new collectors, with works to suit a wide range of budgets.

HORIZONS PRESENTED BY CHAPMAN TRIPP

Horizons highlights new-generation and unrepresented artists from across Aotearoa and the Pacific, offering visitors the chance to discover experimental new work. For 2026, Horizons features four curated booths led by Dan Ahwa, Matthew Galloway, Chevron Hassett and Becky Hemus. The sector is facilitated by Becky Hemus, publisher and editor-in-chief of Current art magazine, bringing a strong curatorial perspective to this platform for emerging artists.

THE WALL REAL ESTATE HOUSE PARTY

The Wall Real Estate House Party  brings together beautifully crafted objects, ceramics, design and small-scale works that blur the line between art and everyday living. With a focus on materiality, craftsmanship and contemporary design, the sector offers tactile, playful and thoughtfully made works.