About Whangārei Art Museum

Whangārei Art Museum is a space for connection, creativity, and community. Through exhibitions, public programmes, and partnerships, we bring people and art together to explore ideas, celebrate cultural identity, and inspire new ways of seeing the world.

As the northernmost public art gallery in Aotearoa, we honour the unique cultural and environmental landscape of Te Tai Tokerau. We are committed to showcasing contemporary and historical art from Aotearoa and beyond, with a focus on artists whose work engages meaningfully with place, history, and the present moment.

Our mission is to honour the past, engage the present, and inspire the future. We support artists to take risks and experiment, and we create inclusive, accessible experiences that invite all communities to participate in creative dialogue. We see art as a powerful tool for connection: between people, across generations, and within the wider world.

Guided by the Whangārei Art Trust’s values of sustainability, collaboration, and care, we strive to operate responsibly, partner meaningfully, and grow a thriving, resilient arts ecosystem. Our work contributes to the social, cultural, and economic life of Whangārei, making the museum a vital civic space for all who call this place home, and for those who visit.

The Whangārei Art Trust began as the Whangārei Art Museum Management Group in 2008, became the Whangārei Art Museum Trust in 2011, was renamed Hātea Art Precinct Trust in June 2021, and adopted its current name in April 2023. Even though it officially started before the museum opened in 1996, its structure and name evolved over time to match its expanding role.

Under New Zealand law, Whangārei Art Trust is a Council Controlled Organisation (CCO). This means at least half of its trustees are appointed by the Whangārei District Council. The other trustees are chosen by the Trust itself.

The Trust follows a deed that sets out its purpose: caring for the museum, preserving its collection, and enriching the cultural life of Whangārei .

Although the council appoints most trustees, the Trust still manages itself independently. That independence is important: it helps maintain the museum’s charitable status so it can receive funding, grants, and bequests from supporters.

Every year, Audit New Zealand reviews the Trust’s operations, and the Trust shares regular updates with the community. That way, everything is kept open and accountable.