FAQ

Why does the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery charge admission?

It’s free for New Plymouth District residents and young people.
But operating a gallery of this size and scale comes with significant cost.
The New Plymouth District Council elected members decided $15 admission for visiting adults is the fairest way to achieve this.

Who has to pay to visit and who doesn’t?

It’s free for New Plymouth District residents and young people.
People aged 16 and older visiting the gallery from outside the New Plymouth District will pay $15 admission.
These visitors will be able to come and go from the gallery as many times as they wish within a 24-hour period.
Residents of the New Plymouth District, current Friends of the Gallery and anyone aged under 16 years, will not be required to pay.

How do I pay the $15 admission?

Admission for out-of-town visitors is payable at the front counter at the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery. Cash or card is fine.

How long am I allowed to stay at the gallery?

As long as you like and you can visit as many times as you wish within a 24-hour period.
Upon re-entry, visitors will simply need to show their ticket or receipt.

Am I a New Plymouth District resident?

Anyone who lives within the New Plymouth District is a resident.
If you’re unsure, feel free to check with one of our front of house team who can confirm this for you.

How do I prove I am a New Plymouth District resident?

We’ve kept this process as simple as possible for residents.
All you need to do when you visit the gallery is provide the team with something that shows your name and address.
Eg:
NPDC rates invoice
New Plymouth library card
Bank statement
Tenancy agreement
Insurance policy document
Drivers licence with address listed
Any form of postal mail with your name shown
Any mail sent to mobile device with your name and postal address shown

Are there any other changes at Govett-Brewster?

The gallery’s opening hours remain the same 10am – 5pm seven days, except for Christmas Day.
Visitors can continue to access the gallery using the existing entrance on Queen St.
All of the artworks change out three times a year, around April, July and November, with a two-week change out each time. We’re launching our new suite of exhibitions on Saturday 4 August, including Sensory Agents and Len Lye: Heaven and Earth.

The gallery changes its exhibitions three times during each year. Do visitors still have to pay when the exhibitions are closed or being changed?
Whenever exhibitions are closed or in change-over, reduced or free entry will be offered.

Why should my visiting relatives and friends have to pay?

Remember it’s free for New Plymouth District residents and young people.
The New Plymouth District Council elected members decided $15 admission for visiting adults is the fairest way to achieve balance between making the gallery accessible and having the funds it needs to remain the cultural hub and visitor draw card it is today.