Last updated July 2026
The Franklin Arts Centre at 12 Massey Avenue in Pukekohe East provides a dedicated space for the local community to experience visual arts through exhibitions, workshops and retail. Operated by Auckland Council and supported by the Franklin Local Board, the centre features two gallery spaces, a retail shop and a workshop venue. Entry to the galleries is free, making it an accessible cultural hub in the Franklin district. It is co-located with the Pukekohe Library in the town centre.
Practical Information
| Address | 12 Massey Avenue, Pukekohe East |
| Hours | Monday–Friday 9:30am–4:30pm, Saturday 9:30am–2:30pm |
| Closed | Sundays and public holidays |
| Entry | Free to galleries (charges may apply for workshops or special events) |
| Operator | Auckland Council, supported by Franklin Local Board |
| Phone | 09 238 8899 |
| fr****************@*******vt.nz | |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair accessible with accessible parking nearby and gender-neutral bathrooms; assistance animals welcome |
| Parking | Free parking available nearby |
About the Franklin Arts Centre
Franklin Arts Centre occupies a purpose-built facility on Massey Avenue in central Pukekohe East. It forms part of Auckland Council’s network of arts and culture facilities and serves the wider Franklin district by presenting visual arts to the community. The centre hosts two gallery spaces, a retail shop featuring local arts and crafts, and a workshop venue available for hire.
The facility supports both established and emerging artists through its exhibition programme. Exhibitions typically run for around six weeks, with related free or affordable events often scheduled alongside them. This rolling schedule encourages repeat visits throughout the year.
The centre is co-located with the Pukekohe Library, creating a convenient combined cultural and community destination in the town centre. It remains one of the primary dedicated arts venues in the Franklin area.
The New Zealand Steel Gallery
The New Zealand Steel Gallery serves as the main exhibition space. It presents work by national, international and local artists across a range of media including painting, sculpture, photography and mixed media. The professionally curated programme brings high-quality exhibitions to South Auckland on a regular basis.
The Community Gallery
The second gallery space focuses on local and emerging artists from the Franklin district and surrounding areas. It offers a professional platform for artists who may not yet have commercial representation and supports direct sales of work from exhibitions.
Workshops, Retail and Events
A workshop venue is available for hire by artists, community groups and organisations for creative classes, events and programmes. The retail shop stocks works and products connected to the exhibitions and local arts practice. The centre occasionally hosts or participates in district-wide events that activate the galleries and surrounding community spaces.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors appreciate the centre as an impressive facility for a regional town, noting the quality of exhibitions in the main gallery and the welcoming atmosphere for local artists and the community.
Reviewers often highlight the free entry, accessible location next to the library, and the opportunity to see both professional and community work in one visit.
Where to Learn More
Auckland Council – Franklin Arts Centre: official page with current opening hours, contact details, exhibition information and venue hire.
ArtNow NZ – Franklin Arts Centre: listings of exhibitions and events at the centre.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Franklin Arts Centre?
Franklin Arts Centre is at 12 Massey Avenue, Pukekohe East, co-located with the Pukekohe Library. Free parking is available nearby.
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. It is closed on Sundays and public holidays.
What exhibitions does Franklin Arts Centre show?
The New Zealand Steel Gallery presents professionally curated exhibitions by national, international and local artists, typically changing every six weeks. The second gallery space features work by local and emerging Franklin district artists.
Can I hire a workshop space at Franklin Arts Centre?
Yes, the workshop venue is available for hire for creative events, classes and community programmes. Contact the centre by phone or email for details and availability.
Is Franklin Arts Centre wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the facility is wheelchair accessible with accessible parking nearby and gender-neutral bathrooms. Assistance animals are welcome.
Can I buy art at Franklin Arts Centre?
Yes, the retail shop sells works and products related to exhibitions, and works in the community gallery space are often available for purchase. Staff can provide details on current sales.
How do I find out about current exhibitions and events?
Check the Auckland Council page or the centre’s Facebook page for the latest exhibition schedule and upcoming events.
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