Mahurangi Artist Trail

The Mahurangi Artist Studio Trail 2026 wound up on Sunday, 8th February, after ten vibrant days that included the holiday weekend celebrating Waitangi Day. What a trail it has been.

This year the Trail grew by a third — a jam-packed map of studios, shared venues, pop-ups and exhibitions that reflected not only an increase in numbers, but an increase in confidence. There were many new artists, new studios, and fresh energy woven throughout the region. Visitors commented again and again on the diversity, quality and warmth of the experience.

Opening Night – A Strong Beginning

Opening night set the tone beautifully, with more than 250 people filling the Warkworth Town Hall. The presentation format this year — fewer individual “studio spaces” and a more open gallery feel — was warmly received. One visitor commented that it “looked like an art show rather than a craft show,” appreciating the breathing space around the Members’ Showcase Exhibition.

 We extend heartfelt thanks to our two guest speakers including the Albany Manager of Gordon Harris, Gemma Thomas, who supported the Most Memorable Artist prize linked to our Visitor Passport initiative, and Trish Allen from Less Waste, who partnered with us in our Fundraising Challenge.