The Hundertwasser Art Centre with Wairau MÄori Art Gallery
Northland
The Hundertwasser Art Centre with Wairau MÄori Art Gallery is a unique cultural institution located in WhangÄrei, New Zealand. Designed by the renowned Austrian artist and architect Friedensreich Hundertwasser, who lived near Kawakawa for 30 years, it stands as the last authentic Hundertwasser building globally. The centre features a top-floor gallery housing 80 original Hundertwasser artworks, showcasing his distinctive use of vibrant colors and organic forms. On the ground floor, the Wairau MÄori Art Gallery presents contemporary MÄori art, curated by professional MÄori curators to promote indigenous art permanently. Beyond galleries, the building includes a learning centre, theatre, cafĂ©, and shop, all crowned by an afforested roof with rare native plant species, emphasizing harmony with nature. The centre opened in February 2022 after a long and sometimes controversial development process, reflecting the community's commitment to celebrating both Hundertwasser's legacy and MÄori culture. It serves as a cultural beacon, attracting visitors worldwide and highlighting New Zealand's artistic diversity and ecological awareness.
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Astuce: Visit the centre between Thursday and Sunday for guided tours at 11am to 12pm to enrich your experience. Booking tickets in advance is recommended to secure entry. The centre is open daily from 10am to 4pm. Take advantage of available memberships and discounts, and explore the MuseumShop without requiring admission. Spring and summer months offer pleasant weather to enjoy the afforested roof and surrounding area.
Faits intéressants
- âąThe centre is the last authentic building designed by Friedensreich Hundertwasser in the world.
- âąThe Wairau MÄori Art Gallery is the world's first contemporary gallery dedicated exclusively to MÄori artists.
- âąThe name 'Wairau' means 'one hundred waters' in MÄori, the same meaning as 'Hundertwasser' in German.
- âąThe building features an afforested roof with rare native plant species, emphasizing ecological harmony.
- âąHundertwasser's design for the nearby Kawakawa Toilets sparked economic recovery for the small town.
Histoire
The concept for the Hundertwasser Art Centre was first designed by Friedensreich Hundertwasser in 1993, inspired by his long residence in the Bay of Islands region.
Initial plans were delayed due to ownership issues and council hesitations.
Hundertwasser later designed the famous Hundertwasser Toilets in Kawakawa, which revitalized the local economy.
After his death, the WhangÄrei District Council renewed efforts to build the centre, signing a contract with the Hundertwasser Non Profit Foundation in 2012 to ensure authenticity.
Despite political challenges and council votes rescinding previous commitments, a binding referendum in 2015 approved the project.
The centre finally opened in 2022, fulfilling Hundertwasser's vision and establishing a lasting cultural landmark in Northland.
Guide du lieu
Hundertwasser Gallery1993
Located on the top floor, this gallery houses 80 original artworks by Friedensreich Hundertwasser, showcasing his vibrant colors, organic shapes, and philosophy of harmony between humans and nature.
Wairau MÄori Art Gallery2022
Situated on the ground floor, this gallery is dedicated to contemporary MÄori art, curated by professional MÄori curators to promote indigenous New Zealand art permanently.
Afforested Roof2022
The building's roof is planted with rare native New Zealand species, creating a unique ecological space that reflects Hundertwasser's philosophy of integrating architecture with nature.
Learning Centre and Theatre2022
Facilities within the centre provide educational programs and host cultural events, supporting both local community engagement and visitor enrichment.
Contact
Téléphone: 09 430 4230