Last updated May 2026
The Franklin Arts Centre at 12 Massey Avenue, Pukekohe is a publicly funded arts facility operated by Auckland Council, with two free galleries, a retail shop, and workshop space. It is one of the only dedicated arts spaces in the Franklin district and runs a rolling programme of exhibitions featuring both nationally known artists and local talent. Entry to both galleries is free.
Practical Information
| Address | 12 Massey Avenue, Pukekohe |
| Hours | Monday–Friday 9:30am–4:30pm, Saturday 9:30am–2:30pm |
| Closed | Sunday and public holidays |
| Entry | Free |
| Operator | Auckland Council |
| Phone | 09 238 8899 |
| fr****************@******************vt.nz | |
| Parking | Free behind the building, accessible from Edinburgh Street |
About the Franklin Arts Centre
Franklin Arts Centre is managed by Auckland Council as part of its arts and culture facilities network. The centre occupies a purpose-built space on Massey Avenue in central Pukekohe, co-located with the Pukekohe Library. It operates two distinct gallery spaces under the same roof — one for professionally curated exhibitions of established artists, and one dedicated to local and emerging talent from the Franklin district and surrounding areas.
The New Zealand Steel Gallery
The New Zealand Steel Gallery is the centre’s main exhibition space — a professionally curated gallery that presents work by nationally and internationally known artists. Exhibitions run for approximately six weeks each, giving visitors regular reason to return throughout the year. The gallery presents a range of media including painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media. It is one of only a few spaces in South Auckland providing this level of curatorial programming outside of Auckland City.
The Community Gallery
The Community Gallery is dedicated to local artists — both emerging and experienced — from the Franklin district. It provides a professional exhibition platform for artists who may not yet have access to commercial gallery representation, and supports the sale of work directly from the exhibition. It is an important outlet for the local creative community and gives visitors a window into the particular artistic identity of the Franklin region.
Workshops and Retail
Alongside the two galleries, the centre includes a workshop space available for hire by artists, community groups, and organisations running creative events. A retail shop stocks works and products related to the exhibitions and local arts practice. The centre hosts the annual Franklin Arts Festival, which activates both the galleries and wider community spaces in the district.
What Visitors Say
ArtNow NZ and local reviewers describe Franklin Arts Centre as a genuinely impressive facility for a district of this size — noting that the NZ Steel Gallery consistently presents work of a quality that would be at home in Auckland’s central city galleries, and that the free admission makes it an accessible cultural stop for anyone in the Pukekohe area.
Where to Learn More
Auckland Council — Franklin Arts Centre — official page with current exhibitions, opening hours, workshop hire, and contact details.
Auckland Art Gallery — Franklin Arts Centre — overview of the centre’s programme and its place within the wider Auckland arts network.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Franklin Arts Centre?
Franklin Arts Centre is at 12 Massey Avenue, Pukekohe — co-located with the Pukekohe Library. Free parking is available behind the building from Edinburgh Street.
Is Franklin Arts Centre free to visit?
Yes — entry to both galleries is free. The centre is open Monday to Friday 9:30am–4:30pm and Saturday 9:30am–2:30pm. Closed Sunday and public holidays.
What exhibitions does Franklin Arts Centre show?
The NZ Steel Gallery presents professionally curated exhibitions of established national and international artists, changing every six weeks. The Community Gallery is dedicated to local Franklin district artists.
Can I hire a workshop space at Franklin Arts Centre?
Yes — the workshop space is available for hire for creative events, workshops, and community programmes. Contact fr****************@******************vt.nz or phone 09 238 8899 for venue hire details.
What is the Franklin Arts Festival?
The Franklin Arts Festival is an annual event hosted at and around Franklin Arts Centre, activating galleries and community spaces across the district. Check franklinartsfestival.co.nz for the current year’s programme.
Can I buy art at Franklin Arts Centre?
Yes — the retail shop sells works and products, and works in the Community Gallery are available for sale. Ask staff for details on purchasing directly from exhibitions.
For more in the Pukekohe town centre, the Pukekohe Library is co-located at the same address on Massey Avenue. The Pukekohe Town Square is a short walk away.
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