This October, the Lower Hutt Art Trail rolls into Petone, and it’s a wonderful excuse to spend a creative day in the neighbourhood. Across the weekend of 17–18 October, more than 50 artists from all over the region open their collections to the public, with a cluster of stops right here in Petone and along Jackson Street.
It’s a free, self-guided wander through everything from painting and sculpture to glass, jewellery, mixed media and more, a chance to meet the makers, discover something you love, and enjoy the street while you’re here.
When: Saturday 17 & Sunday 18 October Time: 10am–4pm each day Cost: Free to explore
Nine local artists will have collections on display across Petone, each hosted at one of our local venues. Follow the trail between them and take your time, there’s plenty to see.
Doreen Doolan Mall, 8/193 Jackson Street Featuring Sophie Gardiner, Brianne McLean and Ange Holtslag.
Historic Police Station, 274B Jackson Street Featuring Leon Ramakers, Jane Firth and Brendan Martin.
223 The Esplanade Featuring Marianne Linton and Emmi.
247 Jackson Street Featuring Philippa Hopkins.
More Petone venues and artists are joining the trail – we’ll add them here soon.
The Art Trail is free and self-guided, so you can explore at your own pace. Pick up a printed trail guide from local libraries, galleries, cafés and shops, or use the interactive map on the official website to plan your route. The full trail stretches right across Lower Hutt, from Taita to Eastbourne, but with several stops clustered here in Petone, it’s easy to make ours a relaxed morning or afternoon on foot.
Find the full map and artist line-up at lowerhuttarttrail.co.nz.
Petone is made for this kind of wander. Between venues, duck into the cafés, browse the shops, and enjoy a coffee or a bite along Jackson Street. Come for the art, stay for the street, and see a different side of your local creative community.
We can’t wait to see you out on the trail.
It’s worth the journey.
