NZ Sculpture OnShore is an outdoor sculpture exhibition held every two years on the clifftop at Operetu, Fort Takapuna, in Devonport. It was first held in 1996 in a private garden on the shores of Lake Pupuke, and moved to the fort in 2004. Over 100 established and emerging New Zealand artists show work that ranges from monumental stand-alone sculptures to light and sound works and site-specific installations. The works are for sale during the exhibition. The fort's underground rooms are open to the public during the event, and the indoor gallery is in the Officers Mess.
All proceeds go to Women's Refuge New Zealand, and more than NZ$2.6 million has been donated so far. A record $400,000 came from the 2025 exhibition. The event is run by local volunteers, and the next exhibition is in 2027. The new Women's Refuge NZ Sculpture of Strength Award recognises artists whose work speaks to safe homes and strong communities. Our pick in Devonport for a clifftop walk among sculptures.