OPEN STUDIOS WAITĀKERE
Plan your Visit
Visiting Studios
Open Studios Waitakere, is designed to be enjoyed on your own terms.
This event is designed for you to explore at your leisure. Take your time, savour each moment, and immerse yourself in the creativity around you. Wander from studio to studio, pause to chat with artists, and let your curiosity guide you.
Whether you spend a few minutes or an hour at each location, it’s all about enjoying the journey. So come and experience art in a way that feels right for you!
Make your own way around the Open Studios using our Map. Take your car, fill it with friends or ride your bike!
If you are intending on purchasing artworks, we suggest taking cash, although many artists will accept payment via bank transfer.
Studios are open from 10am to 4pm on both days. Everything is free and there is no need to book. Most people plan a loop around one or two areas rather than trying to see everything - the ranges are bigger than they look, and half the pleasure is the drive between studios.
How the event works
Pick up a printed brochure and map from your local cafe or library, or download from our website once available.
Alternatively you can Search "Open Studios Waitākere" in the Auckland Stories app to follow the tour, read about each artist, get directions and build your own route.
Find your way
Some studios are down unsealed driveways or rural roads. Check the listing for parking and access notes.
Not every studio takes card payments. Most will allow bank transfers, but it’s also worth carrying some cash.
Mobile coverage is patchy in parts of the ranges. Download the trail map before you leave home.
Allow more travel time than you’d think, particularly around Piha, Karekare and Te Henga. Take your time to enjoy and drive safely!
Before you set out
Most studios welcome children, and some run hands-on activities especially for families. But please check listings to see if the studio is unsuitable for kids.
Bring the Family
We aim to note if a studio is accessible or not on the listing. If you have questions about a particular studio, get in touch and we will find out for you.
Accessibility
The Studio Map
Open Studios Waitākere covers the entire Waitākere Ranges Local Board area — from Piha and Te Henga in the west to Glen Eden and Oratia in the east, and from Swanson in the north to Huia and Parau in the south.
Before this year’s event, we’ll upload the tour map.
Plan Your Trail with the Auckland Stories App
Explore Open Studios Waitākere your way with our self-guided art trail using the Auckland Stories App. It’s free, easy to use, and helps you navigate between studios, learn about each artist, and plan your perfect creative day out.
We’ll update this link once the artists are announced for this year.