The Patrons of Auckland Art Gallery was established in 1987 by Dame Jenny Gibbs and was the first major philanthropic cultural support group in New Zealand. Dame Jenny’s vision was informed by international models and she recognised the opportunity to further enhance the Gallery’s Collection. 

Dayle Mace MNZM took over the reins as Chair of the Patrons from Dame Jenny and provided wonderful leadership for 15 years before stepping down at the end of 2017. The Patrons are now led by Chanelle Farmer and their enthusiasm and generosity is highly valued by the Gallery. 

Today the Gallery holds the most significant art collection in the country, in no small part due to the generous contribution of some 220 works that include those by W D Hammond, Richard Killeen, Peter Robinson, Mark Adams, Bill Culbert, Yvonne Todd, John Reynolds, Phil Dadson, Michael Parekowhai, Francis Upritchard, Lisa Reihana, Yuki Kihara, Julian Hooper, John Pule, Andy Leleisi’uao and et al..