Top 7 Local Experiences to Get Your Art Fix

Ahuriri isn’t just a coastal escape—it’s a thriving hub of creativity, history, and culture. Whether you’re a dedicated art lover, a history enthusiast, or just someone who appreciates beautifully designed spaces, this guide takes you through the best artistic experiences Ahuriri has to offer.

From galleries and murals to boutique shopping and immersive cultural spots, here’s where to get your art fix in Ahuriri.

1. Discover Local Talent at Red Peach Gallery

Tucked away on Bridge Street, Red Peach Gallery is a must-visit for those who appreciate local and New Zealand art. The space is a visual feast, showcasing stunning paintings, sculptures, and mosaics.

Want a hands-on experience? Owner Janice Corbishley runs fantastic mosaic workshops, where you can create your own masterpiece. You’ll leave with more than just a beautiful artwork—you’ll take home a newfound skill.

💡 Insider Tip: Across the road, pop into Whale Tail Antiques—a hidden gem filled with vintage treasures and artistic artefacts.

2. 📆 JULY EVENT: 🎨 Paintvine at the Urban Winery — A Night of Creativity & Wine 🍷
Thursday 3 July, 7pm | $49pp

Get ready to unleash your inner artist at one of Napier’s most creative nights out!

Paintvine is coming to the Urban Winery for an evening where art and wine flow in equal measure. Whether you’re a total beginner or a seasoned painter, this laid-back, step-by-step painting class is all about fun, creativity, and good vibes.

Grab a brush in one hand and a glass of wine in the other as you’re guided through the process of creating your very own masterpiece. No pressure, no experience needed—just great company, great drinks, and a whole lot of colour.

✨ Here’s what to expect:

• 🎨 All materials provided (canvas, paints, brushes)

• 🍷 Drinks available for purchase from the Urban Winery’s incredible selection

• 🍕 A delicious food menu available to keep the creativity flowing

• 🖼️ A completed artwork to take home at the end of the night

Perfect for date night, a catch-up with mates, or a solo adventure into your creative side.

Spots are limited and this one always books out, so round up your crew and lock it in!
For tickets and more info head to ➡️ https://paintvine.co.nz

3. Where Flowers Become Art: The Village Florist

Who says art is only found on canvases? At The Village Florist, creativity flourishes in the form of stunning floral arrangements. Whether you’re after a fresh bouquet or a unique, handcrafted gift, this boutique is full of inspiration.

✨ Pro Tip: Chat with owner Rhonda—her eye for design and colour makes every floral arrangement a living masterpiece.

4. 📆 JULY EVENT: 🌸 Botanical Fusion - an evening of gin and flower arranging 🍸

Thursday 10 July, 6pm | $120pp

Want to take it a step further and try your hand at the art of floristry? Then Botanical Fusion is for you! This will be an unforgettable evening of flower arranging and gin tasting in the heart of Ahuriri, Napier. Hosted by renowned florist Rhonda Claypole of The Village Florist, you'll learn the art of creating your own floral masterpiece in the stunning surroundings of the Art Deco gin distillery.

Each guest will receive fresh blooms, a stylish vessel, and expert guidance to design a gorgeous arrangement to take home. ✨

Includes:

• 🌸 All florals and materials

• 🍸 A welcome drink + tasting of two artisan gins

• 🥖 Grazing platters throughout

• 🍹 $10 drinks all evening

• 🏷️ Exclusive discounts on gin bottle sales on the night

Book your tickets here - spaces are very limited and will go fast! Ready, set, GO!

5. Marvel at Ahuriri’s Storytelling Murals

Ahuriri’s street art is more than just eye-catching—it tells a story. Wander through the suburb and you’ll discover powerful, large-scale murals tackling themes like:
🎨 Overfishing & marine conservation
🎨 Climate change & environmental awareness
🎨 The effects of plastic pollution

These vibrant works reflect Ahuriri’s artistic heart while inspiring conversations about important issues. It’s like an outdoor art gallery with a message.

6. Soak in Art Deco Elegance at the National Tobacco Company Building

Ahuriri’s cultural soul is rooted in its history, and no building captures that better than the National Tobacco Company Building.

This Art Deco masterpiece is an architectural showstopper, with its:
🏛️ Grand archways
🎨 Intricate detailing
🍸 Home to the National Distillery Company

Stop by for a gin tasting or book a cocktail-making masterclass, where you can blend history with hands-on fun.

📍 Hot Tip: Love history? Keep an eye out for Ahuriri’s History Boards, scattered throughout the suburb. These beautifully designed panels share fascinating stories about Ahuriri’s past.

7. Evening Inspiration: Wind Down at The Globe Theatrette

After a day of exploring Ahuriri’s creative side, settle into a cosy, boutique cinema experience at The Globe Theatrette. This hidden gem offers a luxurious yet intimate setting, complete with plush leather seating, a curated selection of indie films, and a fully stocked bar.

Order a glass of wine or a craft beer, grab a piping hot pizza delivered straight to your seat, and sink into the magic of cinema in a dark, cool, stylish space.

📆 EVENT: This month, it’s all about international flair with the French Film Festival Aotearoa (on now until 29 June) and the upcoming Italian Film Festival, running 17–27 July. Expect irresistible comedy, beautiful storytelling and cinematic magic, right here in Ahuriri. Grab your tickets here!

🎭 Bonus Fix: Catch a Show at the Tabard Theatre

For a dose of live performance and theatrical magic, don’t miss the Napier Operatic Society — one of New Zealand’s oldest and most respected theatre groups, with a legacy stretching back almost 140 years. Their home, the beautifully restored Tabard Theatre in Ahuriri, is a hidden cultural gem, known for staging world-class productions in an intimate, character-rich setting.

📆 EVENT Coming up: the Tremains Season of Matilda the Musical, running 24 September – 4 October. Packed with heart, humour and high-energy performances, this award-winning show is set to light up the Napier Municipal Theatre. 🎶👧🎟️

Trust us — whether you’re a seasoned theatre-goer or just looking for a memorable night out, this is a must-add to your Ahuriri arts itinerary.

Ahuriri: A Creative Escape Awaits

Ahuriri isn’t just a destination—it’s an artistic experience. From galleries and murals to history, floristry, and boutique cinema, this coastal gem is the perfect place to feed your creative soul.

Which of these stops are on your must-visit list? Let us know! ✨