Last updated July 2026
The New Zealand Portrait Gallery Te Pūkenga Whakaata is located in historic Shed 11 on Wellington’s waterfront. It presents portraits of New Zealanders through painting, photography, sculpture and other media, with exhibitions drawn from its collection and loans. Entry is free for New Zealanders, while international visitors over 18 pay $10. The gallery sits a short distance from the city centre and offers easy access to the surrounding foreshore paths and nearby cafés.
Practical Information
| Address | Shed 11, 60 Lady Elizabeth Lane, Wellington Waterfront 6011 |
| Hours | Daily 10am–4:30pm (closed Christmas Day and Good Friday) |
| Admission | Free for New Zealanders; $10 for international visitors over 18 (companions free) |
| Getting There | Approximately 550 metres (7–8 minute walk) from Wellington Railway Station; closest bus stops include Lambton Central stops on Featherston Street and Brandon Street |
| Parking | Limited metered on-street parking on Customhouse Quay and Lady Elizabeth Lane; Wilson Parking under TSB Arena off Jervois Quay; mobility spaces opposite the rear of the gallery next to TSB Arena |
| Accessibility | Step-free access throughout; all on one level; wheelchair available on site; large-print labels; assistance dogs welcome; accessible gender-neutral toilet with baby-changing facilities |
About the Gallery
The New Zealand Portrait Gallery Te Pūkenga Whakaata collects, preserves and exhibits portraits by and of New Zealanders. Its rotating exhibitions feature historical and contemporary works across a wide range of subjects, including politicians, artists, athletes, writers and community figures. The gallery emphasises storytelling through portraiture and regularly hosts public programmes, artist talks and events tied to current shows.
Shed 11 is a heritage building originally constructed in 1904 as a waterside store for the port. The long, open-plan interior retains original pulleys and beams from its working days. The gallery occupies this distinctive space on Queens Wharf, placing it within Wellington’s revitalised waterfront precinct.
Exhibitions change several times a year and often include touring shows alongside selections from the permanent collection. The intimate scale of the venue allows visitors to view works closely while the waterfront location encourages combining a visit with a walk along the harbour edge.
The Waterfront Setting
The gallery’s position on the Wellington Waterfront makes it a convenient stop during a foreshore stroll. Lady Elizabeth Lane links Customhouse Quay directly to the harbour edge, with Chaffers Marina and Chaffers Dock nearby. Numerous cafés and restaurants sit within a few minutes’ walk, allowing visitors to extend their outing along the waterfront paths toward Te Papa or the city centre.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors appreciate the compact size that makes for a quick yet engaging stop while walking the waterfront. Many note the interesting variety of portraits and creative use of materials, describing the experience as thought-provoking without requiring a long commitment.
Reviewers frequently mention friendly staff and the welcoming atmosphere. Families and casual visitors highlight the ease of popping in between other waterfront activities, with some praising the large-print resources and family-friendly touches such as the whānau space.
Where to Learn More
New Zealand Portrait Gallery official site: current exhibitions, events, collection information and visiting details.
Visit page: full directions, parking, public transport options and accessibility information.
Access page: detailed accessibility features, facilities and support available at the gallery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the New Zealand Portrait Gallery free?
Entry is free for New Zealanders. International visitors over 18 pay $10, with companions and support people admitted free.
What are the opening hours?
The gallery is open daily from 10am to 4:30pm and closed on Christmas Day and Good Friday.
Where is the gallery located?
It is in Shed 11 at 60 Lady Elizabeth Lane on the Wellington Waterfront, just off Customhouse Quay opposite Johnston Street, approximately 550 metres from Wellington Railway Station.
Is there parking nearby?
Limited metered on-street parking is available on Customhouse Quay and Lady Elizabeth Lane. Wilson Parking operates under the TSB Arena off Jervois Quay, with mobility spaces opposite the rear of the gallery.
Is the gallery accessible for people with mobility needs?
Yes. The building has step-free access throughout and is all on one level. A wheelchair is available on site, large-print labels are provided, and assistance dogs are welcome.
How long does a typical visit take?
Most visitors spend less than an hour, making it easy to combine with a waterfront walk or other nearby attractions.
What kind of portraits are displayed?
Exhibitions feature painted, photographic, sculptural and mixed-media portraits of New Zealanders from many backgrounds and eras, including public figures, artists and community members.
Are there facilities for families or children?
A whānau space with seating and creative activities is available at the back of the gallery, along with a baby-change station in the accessible toilet. The venue is buggy accessible.
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