Everything you need to know before visiting Toi Aro.
Find us. Walk in. Be part of it. Market Lane is where it’s happening.
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Toi Aro is fully accessible. If you’d like to discuss your access needs ahead of your visit, please get in touch:
Toi Aro is a creative hub in the heart of Te Whanganui-a-Tara, open to artists, visitors, and the wider community.
Whether you’re coming to see an exhibition, attend a class, or explore the space, here’s everything you need to plan your visit.
Transport & Parking
Public Transport
A 10-15 minute walk from Wellington Railway Station and a short walk from the Lambton Quay and Courtenay Place bus stops. Several Metlink routes stop nearby.
Parking
Paid parking at the Market Lane carpark (entrance on Taranaki Street) and the nearby Civic Square carpark. On-street parking available on surrounding streets.
Nearby
Market Lane has excellent cafés, restaurants, and shops. Cuba Street is a short walk away. We're in the heart of the CBD.
Access and Entry
Main Entrance
Step-free access from Market Lane. Automatic sliding doors.
Lift
Lift available to all floors.
Main Staircase
Central staircase from lobby to Level 2 and 3. Handrails on both sides, signage at each landing.
Reception & Info Desk
Directly to your right as you enter. Staff are available to assist if needed.
Accessible Bathrooms
Ground Floor near the gallery entrance, and Level 1 near the hot desks. Clearly signposted.
Seating
Seating available throughout the building.
What to Expect
Toi Aro is an active creative space. You may encounter exhibitions, rehearsals, workshops, or artists working throughout the building.
Some spaces may be in use during your visit — please respect signage and the work taking place.
Entry
General entry to Toi Aro and Nau Mai Gallery is free.
Some events, workshops, or programmes may require booking or tickets.
Photography
Photography is welcome in public areas. Please check signage in exhibition spaces, as some works may have restrictions.
Families & Groups
Toi Aro is a shared space open to all ages. Children should be supervised, especially in gallery and studio areas.
Toi Aro is a shared creative space. We ask visitors to respect the artists, the work, and each other while enjoying the building.
FAQ’s
Frequently Asked Questions
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No booking is required for general entry. Some events, workshops, or programmes may require booking — check the What’s On page for details.
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Nau Mai Gallery is open during Toi Aro’s opening hours. Exhibition availability may vary depending on installation or events.
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Some artists work on-site, but availability varies. Opportunities to meet artists may be available through talks, workshops, or events.
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Reception is located near the entrance, and signage is available throughout the building. You can also view the building layout on our Our Place page.
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There are no dedicated food outlets inside Toi Aro, but there are many cafés and restaurants nearby, including along Cuba Street.
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Small bags are welcome. Please take care in gallery spaces and avoid placing items near artworks.
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Filming or recording may require permission, especially in gallery or studio spaces. Please contact us in advance for enquiries.
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Yes — group visits are welcome. For larger groups or organised visits, we recommend getting in touch ahead of time.
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Weekdays are generally quieter. Evenings and weekends may be busier, especially during events and exhibitions.
Location
3–6 Market Lane, Te Whanganui-a-Tara, Wellington
Aotearoa, New Zealand
Opening Hours
Weekdays: 10am–8pm
Weekends: 10am–4pm
Open on some public holidays
Phone