Te Whare o Rehua Sarjeant Gallery holds a collection of more than 8,000 items of national and international significance, spanning four centuries of European and New Zealand art history. With an ongoing programme of exhibitions and events, the gallery is an important community asset that can be accessed by locals and visitors alike.
Te Whare o Rehua Sarjeant Gallery was founded through the generosity of one man to his home city. In 1912, Henry Sarjeant left a huge sum of money – the equivalent of over $70 million in today’s terms – to establish the gallery “as a means of inspiration for ourselves and those who come after us”.
The extension to the Sarjeant Gallery is dedicated to Tā Te Atawhai Archie John Taiaroa KNZM, who was a loved and respected kaumātua and an inspirational leader of the Whanganui people.