Toi Pōneke Arts Centre is Wellington City Council’s dedicated arts facility, offering gallery exhibitions, dance studios, arts classes, and a programme of creative events. In 2026 the centre is undergoing a significant transition, moving from its current home at 61–69 Abel Smith Street in Te Aro to a new location at Market Lane. Check the website for current location and hours during the move.
Practical Information
| Current Address | 61–69 Abel Smith Street, Te Aro, Wellington (until June 2026) |
|---|---|
| New Location | Market Lane, Wellington (from July 2026) |
| Hours | Open daily from 10am; weekdays until 8pm, weekends until 4pm (check website during transition) |
| Admission | Free entry to gallery; classes and workshops are ticketed |
| Website | toiponeke.nz |
About Toi Pōneke
Toi Pōneke — the name combines toi (arts) with Pōneke (Wellington) — has been a hub for Wellington’s arts community for decades. The centre provides gallery space for contemporary exhibitions, professional dance studios and rehearsal rooms, visual arts classes for adults and children, and a regular programme of performances and workshops.
The gallery shows a rotating programme of contemporary work, with a particular strength in emerging and established New Zealand artists. The studios are used by professional artists, dancers, and community groups, and the class programme covers a wide range of disciplines across visual arts and performing arts.
The 2026 Move to Market Lane
Toi Pōneke is relocating from Abel Smith Street to Market Lane in June 2026, with hireable rooms and studios becoming available from 1 July 2026. The move represents a significant change for the centre — check toiponeke.nz for the most current information on the new address, facilities, and any changes to the programme during the transition period.
Where to Learn More
Wellington City Council — Toi Pōneke — council overview of the centre and its role in Wellington’s arts scene.
FAQ
Is the Toi Pōneke gallery free to enter?
Yes — gallery entry is free. Classes, workshops, and ticketed events are priced separately.
Where is Toi Pōneke located?
The current address is 61–69 Abel Smith Street, Te Aro, Wellington. The centre is moving to Market Lane in June 2026 — check the website for the current address.
What does Toi Pōneke offer?
Gallery exhibitions, professional dance studios, arts classes for adults and children, rehearsal spaces, and a programme of performances and workshops.
What are the gallery opening hours?
Currently open daily from 10am — until 8pm on weekdays and until 4pm on weekends. Hours may vary during the 2026 move, so check the website.
Can I hire studio or rehearsal space at Toi Pōneke?
Yes — studio and room hire is available. Contact the centre directly or check the website for availability and rates at the new Market Lane location from July 2026.
Also in central Wellington: Enjoy Contemporary Art Space in Cuba Street’s Left Bank Arcade is another artist-run gallery showing new work. For the full range of cultural sites, see Historical and Cultural Sites in Wellington.
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