The North Island’s west coast is a treasure trove for art lovers, and the Coastal Arts Trail offers a unique self-drive journey through this creative heartland. Winding through Manawatū, Whanganui, and Taranaki, this trail connects travellers with a vibrant mix of galleries, museums, street art, and small artist studios.
This six-day itinerary is designed for those looking to immerse themselves in the region's rich artistic landscape. You will discover everything from contemporary masterpieces and traditional Māori art to off-the-beaten-path studios in rural communities. Prepare to explore the galleries, meet the artists, and follow the creative pulse that breathes life into these regions.
Start your journey in the Manawatū region, a place where urban street art meets fine art and heritage – or, if you’re travelling North – South, read this blog backwards!
Day 1: Palmerston North
Start your day in Palmerston North, a city buzzing with creative energy. Your first stop is Te Manawa, a museum of art, science, and heritage. The art gallery, Ngā Toi, which became part of the complex over 20 years ago, houses an impressive public collection and hosts touring exhibitions from local and international artists.
Next, visit LIGHTBOX gallery, located in the iconic Square Edge building on the corner of Te Marae o Hine – The Square, Palmerston North. This family-owned space champions local artists from Manawatū and neighbouring regions and is a fantastic spot to find a unique piece of art or a handcrafted gift.
For lunch, head to Munch, a cafe full of personality that caters to all dietary needs. Their menu features everything from classic eggs benedict to globally inspired dishes, ensuring a satisfying meal in a welcoming and creative atmosphere.
After lunch, take a walk down Berryman’s Lane to admire the colourful murals that paint the walls. Head to He Ara Kotahi bridge - a piece of art in its own right and meander along either side of the awa where you can discover lots of interest-points along the way.
Enjoy an early dinner at Libre, a popular Mexican restaurant on George Street known for its delicious tacos and cocktails.
For your overnight stay, retreat to The Loft at Hlomo Hlomo. This boutique apartment is nestled within the tranquil Hlomo Hlomo Gardens – a Garden of National Significance in the foothills of the Tararua Ranges, offering a great place to linger in your inspiration and a peaceful end to your day.
Day 2: Manawatū
On your second day, explore the wider Manawatū region, starting with an easy drive to Ashhurst for breakfast at the Gorge Quarter Store, a charming, repurposed farm shed at the foot of Te Āpiti – Manawatū Gorge. It's a favourite spot for cyclists, hikers, and nature lovers.
After breakfast, start out on the Tawa Loop Track – a scenic walk through native bush in Te Āpiti - Manawatū Gorge - where you'll find the impressive Whatonga sculpture standing proud in the cool shade. This walk takes 1-2 hours return, for something less demanding, take a drive along the new Te Ahu a Turanga highway to admire the public art positioned at each roundabout and lookouts – keep a keen eye out for these as there are no opportunities for U-turning.
Travel back along Te Ahu a Turanga and enjoy lunch at The Herb Farm, a charming destination with a cafe that emphasizes fresh, homegrown ingredients.
After lunch, visit Suzanne McAllen Pottery in Ashhurst. Suzanne creates beautiful, functional pottery with a unique, handmade charm. Her casual verandah shop is open anytime, offering a chance to find a special piece to take home, or enjoy a private pottery class (or a public one if your timing is right!)
Spend the night at The Last Church in Āpiti, a unique and creative accommodation that provides a memorable stay before you continue your journey to Whanganui the next morning. If time permits, a visit to the Mangaweka 'Yellow Church' Art Gallery is a worthwhile detour as an optional extra.
Continuing your journey, you arrive in Whanganui, a city celebrated for its rich heritage and vibrant arts scene. This region is a cultural hub, boasting numerous galleries, glass art studios, and a deep connection to its history, making it a key destination on the Coastal Arts Trail.
Day 3: Whanganui City Centre
If it's not too late, start your visit by calling in at 88 Putiki, (close to the entrance to Whanganui) it’s a creative haven blending art and lifestyle. This stylish gallery and concept space showcases contemporary works, and curated pieces that celebrate craftsmanship and individuality.
Continue your artsy exploration at the magnificent Te Whare o Rehua Sarjeant Gallery on Pukenamu Queen’s Park. This recently reopened architectural gem holds a nationally significant art collection (8,000 works spanning four centuries!). Spend your morning wandering through its impressive exhibitions, which feature both historical and contemporary works, all housed within an iconic heritage building overlooking the Whanganui River. Take your time to enjoy the gallery’s café with river and mountain views.
Next, head down to the nearby Whanganui Regional Museum, where you can explore the region’s fascinating history, see an extensive collection of Lindauer portraits, and admire Māori taonga. Utopia Studio Gallery is a charming contemporary gallery and working studio run by local artist Angela Tier. Here you’ll often find evocative local and New Zealand art, including ceramics, photography, glass and mixed-media installations. Next stop is Quartz Museum of Studio Ceramics, which showcases an extraordinary collection of over 4,000 works, celebrating the evolution of ceramic artistry from early 20th-century pioneers to today’s innovators.
Experience the magic of glass at Katie Brown & Co Gallery and NZ Glassworks – Te Whare Tūhua o Te Ao, at NZ Glassworks you can watch resident artists skillfully craft beautiful pieces in the hot shop or even book a workshop to create your own paperweight.
Continue on and enjoy a coffee at Article Cafe. This cafe is right next door to Ann Parker Gallery, making it a perfect spot to recharge with a locally roasted coffee, a sweet treat and a spot for curios, arts, cool old stuff, before continuing your art adventure.
Enjoy dinner at High Kut Bistro, a local favourite offering a modern dining experience with a menu focused on fresh, seasonal ingredients.
For your overnight stay, check into The Rutland Arms Inn, a historic hotel in the heart of the city that combines old-world charm with modern comfort.
Day 4: Whanganui
Begin your second day in Whanganui with breakfast at the Mud Ducks Cafe, a classic spot with a wide selection of cabinet food and menu items.
After fueling up, take a 20 min drive from Whanganui to Paloma Gardens, an award-winning private garden where rare and exotic plants are paired with art at every turn. Sculptures, whimsical installations, and hand-crafted pieces are tucked throughout its diverse gardens.
Then make your way to Whanganui’s local beach community, Castlecliff to Vostinar Gallery. Explore a spacious gallery and working studio brimming with ceramic sculptures, pottery, and oil paintings by Ivan Vostinar.
Round off the Whangnui section of your art trail with a visit to the nearby Citadel Café, a vibrant community hub in Castlecliff. Known for its excellent coffee, hearty brunches, and relaxed coastal vibe, it’s the perfect spot to unwind after exploring Vostinar Gallery.
The final leg of your journey takes you to Taranaki, a region known for its majestic maunga and a thriving arts scene that ranges from world-famous galleries to intimate local studios.
Day 5: South Taranaki
Begin your South Taranaki exploration in Hāwera. Visit Quirky Fox which offers a boutique experience filled with contemporary art and fine craft from both Aotearoa and international artists, with a focus on new representational styles. A short stroll away you can find the Lysaght Watt Gallery, which hosts a rotating program of exhibitions. For lunch, stop at The Gathering, conveniently located next to the Lysaght Watt Gallery, where fresh, regional flavours are the star.
Continue your drive along the coast on Surf Highway 45 to Ōpunakē. At from out of the blue studio, you can see textile art come to life on working looms housed by local artist Viv Davy. Nearby, The Brown Bach Studio features Claire Jensen’s inventive sculptures and functional pieces made from repurposed materials.
Finish your afternoon by heading inland to Eltham (via State Highway 3) and stop at The Bank, Mark Bellringer’s studio housed in the town’s historic BNZ building. His oil paintings and photography capture the beauty of the Taranaki region’s back roads and quiet moments.
For a luxurious end to the day, stay overnight at the Old Eltham Post Office. The heritage building from 1905 now offers opulent accommodation, with the spacious Helena Suite providing a truly memorable experience.
Day 6: Stratford & New Plymouth
Start your final day in Stratford at the Percy Thomson Gallery, a public art gallery and retail space often called a regional hidden gem. A short walk away is the Fenton St Arts Collective, a unique space blending art, coffee, and award-winning gin in a heritage building. For breakfast, visit The Baking Company, a local favourite in a 1920s building.
Continue north along SH3 to Ōakura. Here, you can book a studio tour or a jewellery-making workshop at Ringcraft Moana Jewellers. Enjoy a snack at Dawn Ōakura, a beautifully restored church that now serves as a community-minded café and bar.
Your journey concludes in New Plymouth. Explore the Len Lye Centre | Govett-Brewster Art Gallery, known for its cutting-edge exhibitions and the iconic kinetic works of Len Lye, with private tours available to book. Nearby, The Collaboration is a design store and gallery showcasing the work of over 45 local designers and artists. Explore the Coastal Walkway, a 13.2km sea-edge promenade stretching from Port Taranaki to Bell Block Beach, offering stunning coastal views and a collection of public artworks, including Len Lye’s Wind Wand, Renate Verbrugge’s Mothers and Daughters, and John Reynolds’ Big Wave Territory. A short stroll from the walkway is Mr G’s I am Hana, on the exterior of the New Plymouth Library.
Enjoy a final dinner at Arborio, which overlooks the scenic Coastal Walkway. Settle in for the night at Hosking House, a boutique accommodation known for its lush gardens and warm hospitality. In the morning, be sure to grab fresh pastries and sourdough from Billow Bakery before you depart.
Your Creative Adventure Awaits
The Coastal Arts Trail offers a rich journey through the creative heart of New Zealand's North Island. From the vibrant street art of Manawatū to the rich heritage of Whanganui and the world-class galleries of Taranaki, this itinerary provides a framework for an unforgettable cultural adventure. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare to be inspired by the art and artists you encounter along the way.
