Extraordinary creativity in all it's forms can be found at the New Dowse. It's 11 gallery spaces cover fashion to industrial design, craft to multimedia and almost any other creative industry.
A unique approach for a New Zealand gallery is the interactive and 'hands on' stations scattered throughout. It's an opportunity to release your 'inner artist' which is in line with its vision of inspiring creativity. Expect a diverse range of contemporary local, national and international exhibitions which seek to involve and challenge you. Everything from puppetry plays to poetry displays, from stunning jewellery to powerful photography. So long as there is creativity, there seems to be no bounds as to what is acceptable.
Among the over 3000 pieces of work in it's permanent collection, there is an especially strong object and craft focus which has garnered international praise. Some say the largest in the country. Don't miss the excellent New Zealand film Archive collection of over 500 classic film and television titles. They are only a mouse click away and contain short stories, home videos, documentaries, newsreels and even music videos. All of which show important moments in New Zealand History.
Kids are specially catered for. If you time your visit to coincide with the school holidays there are specially created clubs for them to discover, learn and explore. If not, they can create bag tags, key rings, felt badges or pom poms to take home. For bigger kids, there is a weaving workshop. All these workshops take place in the 'lounge' which is chock full of comfortable couches and chairs which contain reading material if all you want to do is curl up with a book!
45 Laings Road, Lower Hutt,Wellington..
04 570 6500
