Whanganui is a city located in the Manawatu-Wanganui region of New Zealand. With its rich history, wonderful local attractions, and bustling arts scene, it’s no wonder that Whanganui has become a must-visit destination for art and culture lovers alike.
From museums to art galleries and theatres, there’s something for art enthusiasts of all ages to explore in Whanganui. Whether visiting for a weekend or an extended holiday, here’s what to look forward to when it comes to discovering the arts scene in this vibrant city.
Museums and Galleries
Whanganui is home to a wide variety of fascinating museums and art galleries, each offering its own unique culture and history. One of the most popular museums in the city is the Whanganui Regional Museum, which focuses on the region’s Maori and colonial history. There are also two renowned art galleries in Whanganui; the Sarjeant Gallery Te Whare o Rehua, which hosts a range of contemporary exhibitions, and the St. Johns Gallery, which is an independent not-for-profit exhibition space.
Visitors to Whanganui can also take a step back in time and explore the city’s early settlers at the Whanganui Settlement Museum. Other museums in Whanganui include the Whangaehu Workingmen’s Museum and the Sarjeant House Museum.
Theatre and Performance Venues
The theatre and performance scene in Whanganui is vibrant and diverse, offering something for everyone. The Royal Wanganui Opera House is one of the most popular venues in the city, hosting plays, musicals, and other events throughout the year. The Royal Wanganui Drama Society (RWDS) also puts on various productions, ranging from the classics to modern works.
The city is also home to several venues offering a variety of live music and entertainment. The Musicians’ Club is a popular spot for local and international artists to perform. There’s also the Whanganui Jazz Club, the Whanganui Rockabilly Scene, and the Red Light Concerts which feature independent and original music.
For those looking for something a bit more offbeat, there are also several venues dedicated to comedy and circus performances, such as the Wild West Comedy Club and the Whanganui Circus.
Events and Festivals
Whanganui is also home to a number of festivals and special events throughout the year. In terms of the arts, the Whanganui Arts Festival is held annually and showcases the best in local, national, and international art. The Whanganui Literary Festival celebrates the written word and is a great opportunity to meet authors and discuss literature.
The city is also home to a number of regular markets, such as the Whanganui Market and the Artists Market, where visitors can pick up unique handmade items and local produce. In addition, there are also an array of other events such as the Whanganui River Market, the Whanganui Riverfest, and the Mardi Gras Festival.
Experiencing the Arts in Whanganui
From galleries and museums to performance venues and special events, visitors to Whanganui are sure to find something that appeals to their tastes. Whether looking for a weekend of culture and exploration, or a holiday filled with extraordinary experiences, the arts scene in Whanganui is sure to be one of the highlights.
- Museums and Galleries – Whanganui is home to a range of museums and galleries showcasing the city’s history and culture, including the Whanganui Regional Museum, Sarjeant Gallery Te Whare o Rehua, and St. Johns Gallery.
- Theatre and Performance Venues – From the Royal Wanganui Opera House to the Whanganui Jazz Club and various independent venues, Whanganui has something for all theatre and music lovers.
Events and Festivals – Whanganui celebrates art and culture throughout the year with a range of festivals and special events, such as the Whanganui Arts Festival and Whanganui Literary Festival.
- Experiencing the Arts in Whanganui – For weekends of culture and exploration or extraordinary holidays, Whanganui’s arts scene has something for everyone.
From the ancient Maori culture to the vibrant contemporary arts scene, Whanganui offers a truly unique experience for art and culture lovers. So whether it’s art galleries and museums, theatre and performance venues, or special events and festivals, there’s something for everyone to explore in this incredible city.