NZ Art Show generates more than $1.5 million in sales

While headlines focus on the capital's challenges, the 2026 NZ Art Show delivered a record result for local artists at TSB Arena.

By Charlotte Daw·June 1, 2026·3 min read

The NZ Art Show, held at TSB Arena, was the largest in its history.

While headlines continue to focus on Wellington's challenges, the 2026 NZ Art Show has delivered a record result, generating more than $1.5 million in art sales over the long weekend at TSB Arena.

More than 200 artists exhibited, with two-thirds of works sold by Sunday afternoon. Show director Carla Russell said sales were up 18 percent on last year, despite a national downturn in discretionary spending.

"Wellington's creative spirit is alive and well," Russell said. "And our buyers showed up."

The show also runs a young collectors programme that delivered $80,000 in sales to artists under 35.

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