AUCKLAND ART GALLERY TOI O TAMAKI

When Dame Jenny Gibbs rallied the nation to support the financially troubled public gallery in 2018, she received an overwhelming response. Under the chairmanship of John Judge, an unprecedented level of public fundraising for a cultural institution ensured the gallery, and its new wing, a secure future. Dame Jenny's movement, called Save Our Gallery, reinforced the idea that culture can be just as important to a city as transport and healthcare. The bottom line is simple: Auckland Art Gallery is the largest and oldest art gallery in the country and it is loved. Thousands from across the country make the pilgrimage for the gallery's landmark exhibitions celebrating New Zealand icons including

Frances Hodgkins, and ambitious pieces such as Lisa Reihana's 26-metre wide, 32-minute long installation In Pursuit of Venus (Infected) in 2015. The three-storey building contains more than 15,000 contemporary and classical works, some from around the world dating back to the 10th-12th century. The gallery building has been situated on the southern side of Albert Park since 1888 and is an artwork in its own right. Modern additions contrast with the French Château-style of architecture and tall neoclassical columns of the restored Mackelvie Gallery. Be humbled by those who fought to protect the heart and soul of New Zealand culture. Cnr Kitchener and Wellesley Streets. (09) 379 1349, aucklandartgallery.com