Welcome to Te Matatiki Toi Ora The Arts Centre
Dating back to 1877, The Arts Centre is a thriving community with a rich history
Located in Ōtautahi Christchurch, The Arts Centre is run by an independent charitable trust and comprises the largest collection of heritage buildings in the country. It is home to over 70 entities including galleries, museums, cinemas, boutique retailers, artisan eateries and bars, accommodation, engaging events, stunning venues and much more.
Open Christchurch 2026
Open Christchurch is a one-weekend-only festival of exceptional architecture.
Find out moreSculpture Festival 2026 - Call for Exhibiting Artists
We're seeking artists to present at Te Matatiki Toi Ora The Arts Centre's annual Sculpture Festival in October this year.
Open Christchurch 2026
Friday 1 - Sunday 3 May 2026 Arts Centre wide
Open Christchurch is a one-weekend-only festival of exceptional architecture.
Pueblo de Tambores Images and sounds from Afro Colombia
Tuesday 5 - Sun 17 May 2026 First floor, Boys’ High
Kadambari’s audiovisual project arises from her questioning of the negative racial stereotypes prevalent in the Global South.
Free
He Wāhanga nō te Kōrero
Tuesday 28 April - Sunday 26 July 2026 Common Room
He Wāhanga nō te Kōrero brings together ngā ringatoi Māori, each responding to a kōrero of their choosing.
Free
Luke Willis Thompson: B42040A1A1A
Saturday 18 April - Sunday 31 May 2026 Ground floor, Registry Additions
B42040A1A1A is a concentrated installation of two ambitious moving image artworks developed over the past three years.
Free
Two-Way Street
Thursday 7 May - Saturday 20 June 2026 Library
Two-Way Street is an exhibition honouring the relationship between mentor and mentee; between the late and accomplished painter, Philip Trusttum, and his two mentees, Morks and Luca McDonnell.
Free
Beyond the Score - Music by Mark Applebaum
Monday 18 May 2026 Great Hall
Join us for a Monday evening of inventive and thrilling music featuring works by American composer and special guest, Mark Applebaum, alongside performances by the UC School of Music faculty and stude
Social Animal – finding relevance in a social media world
Friday 12 June 2026 Great Hall
In an era where a single post can shatter a life, Social Animal brings a sharp, satirical edge to Christchurch.
What's Here
New Zealand-made homewares and gifts.
Frances Nation is a store specialising in Aotearoa New Zealand-made homewares and gifts of quality craftsmanship, authenticity and longevity.