About
Walrus Gallery & The Frame Shop, tucked into the corner of Jessie and Taranaki Streets in Te Aro, is Wellington's understated gem for art lovers and anyone with an eye for craft. This independent gallery showcases contemporary New Zealand art alongside a working framing studio, making it one of the few places in the city where you can see artists' work and commission professional framing under the same roof. The gallery's carefully curated selection reflects the creative energy of Wellington's art scene, with pieces that range from emerging local talent to established practitioners.
Visitors typically spend 20–40 minutes browsing, though if you're commissioning framing work or chatting with the knowledgeable staff, you'll want longer. The space has an intimate, unhurried feel—it's perfect for solo explorers, art students, couples after a cultural pit stop, or anyone genuinely interested in supporting local artists. The ground-floor location makes it accessible, and the staff are genuinely helpful without being pushy. It's worth noting this is a working studio, so sometimes the focus shifts between gallery hours and custom projects; a quick check beforehand ensures you catch it at a good time.
Walrus sits perfectly within Te Aro's creative corridor, a short walk from the City Gallery and Cuba Street's eclectic shops and cafes. If you're doing an art-focused Wellington itinerary or hunting for original work to take home, this is essential. Year-round visiting works well, though the gallery's ever-changing roster of artists means repeat visits often reward you with something new.
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