More than a venue or gallery. A place that weaves people together.
Toi Aro is a place in the heart of Wellington where artists and creators come together to make, share, and shape the city’s creative community.
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A Home for Wellington’s Creative Community
This is not a gallery you walk through and leave. It is a place you return to — to make, share, learn, and connect.
Located at 3–6 Market Lane, Toi Aro brings together:
studios and long-term tenancies for resident artists
flexible spaces for hire, performance, and events
a public gallery
workshops, classes, and creative programmes
Together, these spaces support a connected creative environment where work is developed, shared, and experienced.
Toi Aro builds on the legacy of Toi Pōneke, continuing its role in supporting Wellington’s creative communities in a new, purpose-designed space.
What You'll Find Here
Toi Aro is not one thing. It is a gallery, a studio complex, a community hub, and a platform for Wellington artists — all in one building. Learn more about some of the things on offer at Toi Aro.
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Nau Mai Gallery
A public gallery on the ground floor — free to enter, open to all. The gallery presents exhibitions by Wellington artists, including resident tenants and community collaborations.
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Hireable Spaces
Six named creative spaces available to hire — for rehearsals, recordings, performances, workshops, hui, and events. From the 134 m² Mareikura to the intimate Poutama meeting room.
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Workshops & Classes
A public programme of workshops, classes, and events across a range of disciplines — open to all, with options for beginners through to advanced practitioners.
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Creative Passes
Ongoing, affordable access to Toi Aro's spaces and community for people who want the building to feel like theirs — with priority booking, member rates, and a place in the creative community.
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Opportunities
Grants, supported residencies, and development opportunities for Wellington artists — at all career stages, across all disciplines.