The Arts House Trust occupies Pah Homestead, an 1870s Italianate mansion in Hillsborough’s Monte Cecilia Park, and presents free, rotating exhibitions of contemporary New Zealand art. Established in 2023, the Trust looks after one of the country’s largest private collections of contemporary Aotearoa art, with nearly 9,000 works (artnow.nz).
Inside, the homestead’s high-ceilinged rooms, timber detailing and broad verandas frame seasonal shows. These draw on the collection and on regional touring exhibitions (Aucklandnz.com). Outside, a sculpture garden spreads across the park grounds. The Trust runs more than 200 events a year, including music, workshops and talks (Aucklandnz.com). Mandarin-speaking visitors can join exhibition tours led by arts professional Meijing He (The Arts House Trust).
Visitor Highlights & Practical Info
Entry to the exhibitions is free. Weekday mornings are the quietest time to visit, while weekends bring families and park walkers. History buffs should plan around the Auckland Heritage Festival. During the festival, the Trust runs guided history tours that open exclusive areas such as the turret (Hours & Location). Subscribe to the Trust’s newsletter for event announcements, and check current opening hours on the website before you go. The venue sits at 72 Hillsborough Road. On-site parking is available, and buses run along Hillsborough Road. You can pair a visit with a stroll through Monte Cecilia Park or a trip to nearby Maungakiekie/One Tree Hill.
