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Discover
Local Art
That You'll Love

EXPERIENCE THE CREATIVITY AND MEET THE ARTISTS

Mercury Bay Art Escape 

7 - 9 and 14 -16 March 2026

Celebrate 20 years of artistic inspiration with the Mercury Bay Art Escape — our annual open studios event showcasing over 50 talented artists from Whangapoua to Pauanui.

Studios will be open for three days (Saturday, Sunday & Monday) over the first two weekends in March, offering a unique opportunity to meet artists in their creative spaces, see works in progress, discover what inspires them, and purchase art directly from the makers. ​

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Gala Opening – Friday 6 March at Hot Waves Café
A highlight on the local calendar, this year’s gala features Keynote Speaker Dick Frizzell, one of New Zealand’s most iconic and beloved artists.

All tickets & vacuum cups to be collected on Gala night at Hot Waves
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Gala Opening

Friday 6 March, 2026

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Bella Van Vlerken

Recipient of 2026 Scholarship

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Carroll DePape

2025 Winner of People's Choice

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Isobel Warwood

Recipient of 2025 Scholarship

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Artists in residence 2025

Hot Waves Cafe

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Siobhan Cox - Report

Recipient of 2024 Scholarship

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Emma Jones - Report

Recipient of 2023 Scholarship

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Our Vibrant Arts Scene

"Our vibrant arts scene is combined with world renowned tourist attractions, spectacular beaches and scenery, we have a winning formula for locals and visitors alike"

Contact Artists here to plan a studio visit. Artists are open by appointment throughout the year.

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Click guide to download
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