Education

Explore, Engage, Create

Our education programmes create meaningful learning opportunities inside the Gallery, bringing together people and art by embracing, sharing and unlocking creativity, imagination and exploration. Working closely with diverse communities and learning partners, we share knowledge and experiences to foster deeper understanding  through art, connection, and aroha. 

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Our education programmes are FREE!

We think it’s essential that all kids and students should be able to have a meaningful and exciting learning experience in the Gallery. If costs are a barrier to your school visit, please get in touch with us via the booking form and ask about our teacher relief fees and transport subsidies.

Education programmes
We offer interactive education programmes and self-guiding resources to suit all levels of ākonga (students), from early childhood to tertiary, across the learning areas. 

Studio Artist 
Ani O’Neill is our 2025 studio artist. In collaboration with our education team she has transformed the studio and produced primary and secondary workshops inspired by her artist practice. Ani O’Nell is an installation and performance artist renowned for reworking Cook Islands art forms, particularly tīvaevae (quilt making), sewing and crochet, into elaborate installations. 
  • 20-minute food break to start your visit.
  • 40 minutes of playful Gallery exploration with a facilitator, discovering artworks with creative interactive activities.
  • This programme is designed for 3-6-year-olds.

Primary 2-hour Gallery exploration + studio

Our Primary Studio Workshop inspired by the artistic practice of Ani O’Nell and her artwork Fresh Eke uses stenciling techniques to create creatures from other worlds! Students create creatures with the help of gifted environments and explore themes of creativity, environment and collaboration. 

  • 50-minute interactive tour with a learning facilitator in the Gallery, exploring various artworks with engaging activities.
  • 20-minute food break.
  • 50-minute workshop in the studio exploring hands-on, creative processes connected to learning experiences in the Gallery.
  • 60 ākonga max per programme.

Primary 1-hour interactive Gallery exploration

  • 1-hour interactive tour with a facilitator in the Gallery, exploring various artworks and responding to artworks with creative, engaging activities.
  • 75 ākonga max per programme *exhibition dependent.

Secondary 100-minute deep dive into art

Our Secondary Studio Workshop is inspired by the artistic practice of Ani O’Nell and Cook Island Māori patterning. Students create personalised stamps that they get to take home and explore themes of ‘Ko Wai Au’ unity and connection.

  • 50-minute interactive tour with a learning facilitator in the Gallery, exploring various artworks with engaging activities and conversations.
  • 50-minute workshop in the studio hands-on, creative processes responding to learning experiences in the Gallery.
  • 60 ākonga max per programme.

Secondary 1-hour art investigation

  • 1-hour interactive tour with a learning facilitator in the Gallery, exploring various artworks with engaging activities and conversations.
  • 75 ākonga max per programme *exhibition dependent.

1 hour with a facilitator in the Gallery, exploring various artworks and responding to artworks with creative interactive activities.

Education groups are always welcome to self-guide in the Gallery. Send us an enquiry, and we can help find the best time for your visit and provide more information to ensure a successful experience.

Kids + Whānau Explore

Taimoana - Coastlines: Art in Aotearoa 
Journey through Taimoana – Coastlines, engage with artworks, learn about their stories, and share your own. Navigate from the depths of the moana to the shores of Aotearoa with artworks as your guide! Pick up your free kids and whānau guide today. 

A Century of Modern Art
This is your passport to explore A Century of Modern Art, travel over 100 years back through time to explore Modern art from America, France, Germany, and more! Complete creative discussion, drawing, and writing activities along the way, to secure your Gallery Explorers Stamp at the end of your journey! Pick up your free kids and whānau guide today. Children under 12 enter the exhibition free with an accompanying adult. 

Matariki 
Matariki is a special time to come together, think about the past year, and celebrate the future. The whetū (stars) of Matariki have been playing in their favourite artworks all year. We need your help to find them so they can twinkle in the night sky! Come help us find these artworks and guess which star you think is hiding inside each of them! Pick up your free kids and whānau guide today. 

Getting in touch

We look forward to hosting your education group at the Gallery and can help you choose the right programme to suit your learning needs. Contact us using the button below, and we will reply soon.

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Regular education updates

Sign up for our regular education newsletter and stay updated with our education programmes, news and resources.

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Our school programmes are Enriching Local Curriculum (ELC) based, supported by the Ministry of Education and facilitated by experienced teachers and art educators. The Sir William and Lady Lois Manchester Charitable Trust provides further support for removing barriers for schools and students.