StHeliers ArtFest Debuts

Nestled in the heart of Auckland, St Heliers invites you to celebrate creativity at the very first St Heliers ArtFest from 29 August–14 September. This vibrant new festival celebrates all forms of artistic expression and offers something for everyone across two weeks (and three weekends) of specials, workshops, exhibitions, and performances.

Live Music, Workshops, Artist Talks & a Village-Wide Art Trail
Wander through the village as local melodies drift around corners and passionate artists share the stories behind their creations—an immersive journey of sight and sound. The Art Trail will showcase a curated mix of works by contemporary, established and emerging New Zealand artists. Artworks appear in shop windows, cafés, and public spaces – inviting visitors to explore, discover, and experience creativity in unexpected ways.

Unleash Your Creativity: Workshops at Turua Gallery
Dive into inspiration with three dynamic workshops led by artists Sara Langdon, Helen Dean, and Helen Bankers—your creative spark starts here.

Exclusive Richard Harri Exhibition at the St Heliers Library
Step into the world of Richard Harri’s art, where each piece invites you into a unique narrative waiting to be explored.

Paint Nights at Semplice Italian Restaurant

Mingle, sip, and splash colour across canvas in a relaxed, deliciously artistic setting—painting and pasta, anyone?

Toddler & Teen Creativity Workshops by The Creative Rume

Watch toddlers and teens bloom as they let imagination lead—The Creative Rume's vibrant separate toddler and teen sessions are a creative playground for young minds. The Creative Rume will also be holding a Dad’s & Kids activity on Father’s Day on Sunday 7 September, bring the kids, and be ready for good laughs, silly crafts, and sweet moments together.

Nail Art Sessions at Joy & Peace
Treat yourself to a pop of personality right at your fingertips—Joy & Peace adds art to everyday elegance.

Kids’ Colouring Competition at St Heliers Bay Bistro
Little artists, big imaginations—grab crayons, race to the pages, and show off those bright ideas while nibbling tasty treats.

Botanical Watercolour & Kokedama Classes at Babylon Store

For creatives Babylon Store offers a serene Botanical Watercolour Workshop run by artist Nellie Ryan. Stroll through their beautiful store and enjoy the exhibitions by Nellie Ryan, and potters Tony Swanson and Vanessa Ceelan. For those aged 65+join Babylon Store for their Golden Tuesday Kokedama class, —grow your skills and your green thumb.

Paw Print Keepsake Creations at Louis & Phoebe
Capture your pet’s personality forever—make adorable keepsake paw prints that speak volumes of love and paws-itivity.

Dog Photography Competition at Village Co-op
Snap, submit, and shine—your pup could be the next furry star of the Village Co-op! And why not grab a mouth-watering natural ice cream while you’re there.

Moreton’s Bar & Restaurant Colour Run
Moreton's Monday Mile, gets a makeover for the Art Fest - grab some colour and your best fancy dress and show your creative flare.

St Heliers Jigsaw Drop-in, Casual Jigsaw Fun in the Heart of St Heliers at Crisp Home + Wear

Pop into Crisp Home + Wear and piece together something fun—puzzles, community, and curiosity collide.

Cup Cake Art & Kiwiana Sip & Paint at St Heliers Four Square

Icing meets inspiration—decorate your cupcake like a pro and paint the iconic Four Square man over a wine in this delightfully creative twist on classic workshop fare.

The Art Roadshow Supported by Bayley's St Heliers

Facilitated by Warwick Henderson, this is a free, Antique-Roadshowstyle event—bring along op-shop finds, inherited family artworks, or vintage toys to have them valued.

Plus, PopUp Sessions & Village-Wide Art Surprises
Keep your eyes peeled—spontaneous popups are everywhere, waiting to spark surprise and delight around every corner.

“We’re thrilled to launch the inaugural StHeliers ArtFest—a vibrant celebration of creativity, collaboration, and community spirit in our beautiful seaside village. This is a chance for locals and visitors alike to connect, explore, and delight in the arts across the village. We can't wait to welcome everyone to this brandnew tradition.”Tracey Warren, StHeliers Business Association Manager.

Community Connection
10percent of all proceeds will be donated to ongoing St Heliers events, helping to inspire creativity throughout the community.

DogFriendly & Golden Tuesdays
St Heliers are not just peoplefriendly! Look out for dogfriendly decals—inside, outside, or both—so you and your fourlegged friend can enjoy the village together. Share your adventures with #dogsofstheliers and if you’re a Gold Card holder, Tuesdays just got better: every Golden Tuesday, flash your card at participating stores for exclusive villagewide deals and discounts.

Everyone is welcome – bring family, friends and fur babies to explore the arts, local cafes, shops and more. Discover what makes StHeliers truly special.

For ticket information and schedule, visit Stheliers.com

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