What’s On At Aotearoa Art Fair 2025
The 2025 edition is the biggest and most exciting edition to date.
Words: Emily Riches
The Aotearoa Art Fair has recently announced its most ambitious program yet. Running from 1–4 May 2025 at the Viaduct Events Centre in Tāmaki Makaurau/Auckland, this year’s Fair brings together 45 galleries from 11 regions showcasing over 150 local and international artists
Presented in partnership with ANZ Private and Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, the 2025 Fair marks an exciting new era under the direction of Sue Waymouth. Bringing a fresh vision, Waymouth is set to amplify the Fair’s global presence and cement its reputation as New Zealand’s premier event for contemporary art.
“This year’s Fair expands well beyond Auckland and Wellington, welcoming galleries from across New Zealand – alongside an exceptional lineup of international galleries and artists,” Waymouth shares. “We’re thrilled to present what we believe will be our strongest edition yet, bringing together an incredible community of artists, gallerists, collectors, and the art-curious for four days of inspiration and connection.”
An international showcase
Aotearoa Art Fair 2025 is embracing international collaboration like never before, with 13 international galleries joining the mix.
The impressive Australian contingent includes Gallery Sally Dan-Cuthbert, Martin Browne Contemporary, Nanda\Hobbs, Fine Arts Sydney, and N.Smith Gallery, alongside exciting newcomers OLSEN Gallery (Sydney), day01. (Sydney), and Parker Contemporary (Brisbane). This expanded global presence enriches the Fair’s diversity, presenting a dynamic mix of contemporary and experimental works.
A spotlight on emerging artists
One of the most anticipated additions this year is Horizons, a brand-new sector celebrating emerging talent. Curated by Becky Hemus, editor of The Art Paper, and supported by Chapman Tripp, this special program will introduce audiences to the next generation of artists and their bold creative practices.
Talks, tours and activations
The Fair also offers a rich program of events designed to engage and inspire visitors.
- ‘Let’s Talk Art’ talks programme – Presented by Aon, this series will feature 30 speakers and 10 talks on contemporary art, design and architecture.
- Guided tours – First-time visitors can gain exclusive insights through artist and curator-led tours.
- Sculptures, live performances and city activations – Tāmaki Makaurau/Auckland will come alive with large-scale installations and interactive experiences across retail and gallery spaces.
- The Art Bookshop – Presented by Lamplight Books, this curated selection will offer art lovers a chance to take a piece of the Fair home.
- Gourmet experiences – Expect hospitality offerings from Savour Group, including Champagne Pommery, Two Rivers Wine and illy coffee.
With more galleries, more international exhibitors and an expanded program of events, Aotearoa Art Fair 2025 is set to be an unforgettable celebration of creativity, innovation and cultural exchange. Whether you’re a seasoned art collector or a newcomer to the art world, this year’s Fair is a must-attend event.
Explore the full list of participating galleries and artists at artfair.co.nz/galleries
Tickets are on sale now at artfair.co.nz/tickets
This article was posted 17 March 2025.
Image: Leila Jefferys, Kererū (detail), courtesy of the artist and OLSEN Gallery.