Last updated June 2026
Arts Inc. Heretaunga serves as the leading advocate for the arts in Hastings and the wider Hawke’s Bay region. It operates the Hastings Community Arts Centre at 106 Russell Street South, a central hub for exhibitions, events and community projects. The organisation promotes and develops artistic expression across all forms, ensuring accessibility for residents and visitors alike. It runs major events including the Hastings Blossom Parade and supports the Hawke’s Bay Arts Festival. Partnerships with the Hastings District Council and other funders sustain its programmes and facilities.
Practical Information
| Address | 106 Russell Street South, Hastings |
| Opening Hours | Weekdays 9:30am–4pm, Saturday 10am–2pm (closed public holidays) |
| Admission | Free |
| Wheelchair Access | Yes |
| Exhibition Changes | Usually every two weeks |
| Annual Artists Featured | Over 500 Hawke’s Bay artists and craftspersons |
| Website | artsinc.co.nz |
About Arts Inc. Heretaunga
Arts Inc. Heretaunga is a non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting and developing the arts throughout the Hastings District and Hawke’s Bay. Its offices and gallery occupy the Hastings Community Arts Centre, a restored Spanish Mission-style building known as Harvey’s Building, completed in 1933. The centre functions as both an exhibition space and an information hub for regional arts activities.
The organisation receives core funding from the Hastings District Council and maintains strong ties with local trusts and community partners. It supports artists through exhibition opportunities, project development and public events that celebrate local creativity and cultural diversity.
Exhibitions rotate frequently, with new shows typically opening every two weeks. The centre displays work by emerging and established Hawke’s Bay artists across painting, sculpture, photography and other media, attracting more than 500 artists annually.
Arts Inc. Heretaunga also coordinates community projects such as the Hawke’s Bay Art Trail and Music in the Park series. These initiatives strengthen connections between artists and the public while contributing to the region’s cultural identity.
The Hastings Community Arts Centre Building
The Hastings Community Arts Centre occupies the historic Harvey’s Building at 106 Russell Street South. This Spanish Mission-style structure was completed in 1933 and later restored by the Hastings Community Arts Centre Trust. Its spacious interior includes a mezzanine level and provides an attractive setting for rotating exhibitions.
Visitors can explore current displays on the ground and upper floors. A boutique at the rear of the centre offers artisan goods for purchase. The building remains a focal point for artistic activity in central Hastings.
Events and Festivals
Arts Inc. Heretaunga organises and supports several signature events. The annual Hastings Blossom Parade celebrates spring with music, performances and community displays along city streets. The Hawke’s Bay Arts Festival, which skipped 2024 due to funding constraints, returned in 2025 as its tenth edition and continues annually with theatre, music, circus and visual arts programmes across Hastings and Napier venues.
Free summer concerts and Music in the Park events occur in local parks including Cornwall Park, often in partnership with other community groups. These gatherings feature local musicians and foster public engagement with the arts.
Community Engagement and Opportunities
The organisation offers multiple ways for the public to participate. Exhibition spaces can be hired by Hawke’s Bay artists for two-week blocks, subject to availability and curation guidelines. Volunteer roles support exhibitions, events and day-to-day operations at the centre.
Membership and donation options are available through the official website. Regular newsletters keep supporters informed about upcoming exhibitions and projects. Feedback from the community helps shape future programming.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors appreciate the frequent rotation of exhibitions featuring local Hawke’s Bay artists and the welcoming atmosphere of the historic building. Many enjoy discovering new work every couple of weeks and value the free entry and central location.
Reviewers often highlight the friendly staff and volunteers, the variety of art on display, and the opportunity to purchase pieces directly from artists. Community events such as the Blossom Parade receive praise for bringing people together in a festive setting.
Where to Learn More
Arts Inc. Heretaunga: Official site with current exhibitions, event listings, volunteer forms and membership details.
Hawke’s Bay Arts Festival: Full programme and ticket information for the annual multi-venue festival.
Hastings District Council: Information on council support for arts and culture initiatives in the district.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I submit artwork for an exhibition at the Hastings Community Arts Centre?
Artists from Hawke’s Bay can hire exhibition spaces for two-week blocks. Details and availability are listed on the Arts Inc. Heretaunga website under the how-to-exhibit section.
Is the Hastings Community Arts Centre wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the centre provides wheelchair access.
Are there volunteer opportunities at Arts Inc. Heretaunga?
Yes, volunteer roles support exhibitions, events and centre operations. An online form is available on the official website.
What is the admission cost to the Hastings Community Arts Centre?
Entry to the centre and its exhibitions is free.
When does the Hawke’s Bay Arts Festival take place?
The festival runs annually in October. The 2025 edition marked its tenth year after a cancellation in 2024.
Does Arts Inc. Heretaunga offer membership?
Yes, membership options provide benefits and support the organisation’s work. Details appear on the give-and-join section of the website.
Where can I find information about the Hastings Blossom Parade?
Event details and dates are published on the Arts Inc. Heretaunga website and through local Hastings District Council channels.
Can I purchase art at the centre?
A boutique at the rear of the centre sells artisan goods, and many exhibitions allow direct purchases from artists.
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