Open Art Studios Upper Harbour 2026

For one weekend, a series of normally private art studios across Auckland's Upper Harbour open their doors. The second annual programme features nine studios and 20 artists, including sculptors, painters, illustrators, ceramic artists and photographers. Studios are located across Greenhithe, Albany, Rosedale, Unsworth Heights and surrounding suburbs, spanning intimate home studios to shared creative environments. Participating artists include wire sculptor Ryan Mateo, oil painter Barry Ross Smith, textile artist Sarah Ward, and live pottery demos from Mead Ceramics and Apollo Clay & Art. The opening night is Friday May 8 from 5 to 7 pm at Greenhithe Old School Building, with Zen Tea and Mindful Painting at Mount Top Art Studio with artist Xie Yi on Sunday afternoon. Led by Renée Tanner of Lightbox Projects and funded by the Upper Harbour Local Board.