Forrester Gallery
MondayClosed.
Tuesday10:00 am – 4:00 pm.
Wednesday10:00 am – 4:00 pm.
Thursday10:00 am – 4:00 pm.
Friday10:00 am – 4:00 pm.
Saturday1:30 – 4:00 pm.
Sunday1:30 – 4:00 pm.
One of the best places to get your art fix in the Waitaki region, the Forrester Gallery hosts a rich programme of exciting exhibitions in a historic Ōamaru landmark – and it’s free for your enjoyment.
Constructed in 1884, this striking neoclassical building along Thames Street first served as the Bank of New South Wales and the bank manager’s residence until 1979. What were once bedrooms and banking chambers have since been transformed into several exhibition spaces, retaining original chandeliers, hearths and dramatic arched doorways, which provide a truly magnificent backdrop for diverse artworks.
The exhibitions at Forrester Gallery are thoughtfully curated with an interesting variation to evoke a wide range of emotions – from joyful and playful to somber and reflective. As well as showcasing historical works from the gallery’s notable collection, local talent features prominently in the programme, with a strong focus on supporting and celebrating new and emerging artists in the region. One upstairs gallery space is dedicated solely to community exhibitions, rotating frequently to offer something new with each visit.
The future is looking extra bright for Forrester Gallery, with construction for a building extension to begin in 2025. The expansion will double the gallery’s size, adding a new lift for accessibility, an education space to inspire young creatives, and increased storage to help preserve the regional collection.
Words by Maggie Worthington & Photography by Anna Briggs
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Location
9 Thames St, Oamaru
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Some holidays call for a tent and hiking shoes, and others something a little more cushy – with the promise of a dreamy mattress to plonk onto at the end of the day. With so much romance and history filling every pocket of town, Ōamaru is the perfect destination for those seeking the latter.
Think luxurious accommodation set in charming heritage buildings, enough one-of-a-kind homeware stores to fill a whole day’s itinerary, vibrant art studios and gallery spaces, and a culinary scene that big cities only dream of having. Have we got your attention?
From the best places to stay to shopping, eating and cultural experiences, here’s our Neat Places guide to a boutique weekend escape to Ōamaru. Lean into the town’s Victorian heritage and give yourself permission to live like a royal.
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