An independent, New Zealand-owned gallery at 54 High Street in Picton, Marlborough. It shows paintings in oil, watercolour, acrylic and mixed media, sculpture, photography, and handmade pounamu and jewellery. The website says it works with artists from across New Zealand, and that the staff will help customers choose art for their homes or workplaces, including bringing pieces to the home to see how they look. The gallery also sells giftware.
The website says the gallery is in Waitohi Picton, a short walk from the centre, and that its owner is a sales consultant as well. Its walls include works from artists such as Jamie Stewart, Marilyn Jessop and Murray Sparrow.
Raukura Art Gallery & Giftware is more than a place to view and purchase art—it's a space where New Zealand's creative community comes together. Owner Ruth Millar, who grew up in the Chatham Islands and spent 27 years in Queenstown before relocating to Picton, wanted to create a gallery that celebrated artistic innovation, craftsmanship, and personal expression from artists throughout New Zealand.
The gallery's carefully curated collection spans an impressive range: oil and watercolor paintings, acrylic works, contemporary mixed media, sculpture in various materials, fine art photography, pottery, glass art, and hand-crafted jewelry featuring New Zealand pounamu and stone. Maori art and traditional harakeke weaving reflect the cultural heritage of the region. Every piece is selected for its artistic merit and ability to inspire.
What truly sets Raukura apart is the personalized approach. The gallery will bring artwork to your home throughout the Marlborough District so you can see how pieces work in your actual living space before making a purchase decision. This service reflects the gallery's belief that choosing art should be thoughtful and intentional—the right piece should resonate in your home.
Gallery Sales Coordinators Kaye McLean and Marilyn Jessop bring deep passion and expertise. Kaye, with a background in hospitality and formal training in Maori arts from Te Wananga O Aotearoa, excels at helping customers navigate choices and build confidence. Marilyn is herself a lifelong artist whose passion for capturing color on canvas has evolved into a career of sourcing emerging talent and supporting established artists—she even exhibited during London Fashion Week.
The gallery champions New Zealand artists at every level, from established practitioners to emerging voices. The rotating roster of over 50 artists ensures the collection continually evolves. Gift vouchers are available for those who want to give the gift of art appreciation without specifying a piece.