Govett-Brewster Art Gallery and Len Lye Centre: A Visitor’s Guide to New Plymouth’s Shimmering Art Icon

Join thousands of RV travellers

Sign up for our Go By Camper newsletter to receive inspirational travel content and awesome deals, and we'll send you a copy of our Ultimate RV guide!

Thanks

Please confirm subscription in your email.

Why do people go to the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery and Len Lye Centre?

Opened in 1970, Govett-Brewster Art Gallery is New Zealand’s leading contemporary art gallery in Taranaki, paired with the striking Len Lye Centre, dedicated to the pioneering NZ-born artist and experimental filmmaker Len Lye. Visitors come for cutting-edge exhibitions, kinetic sculptures, and an on-site boutique independent cinema programming arthouse, festival and classic films.

The Len Lye Centre’s architecture is an attraction in its own right: a gleaming curved stainless-steel façade that mirrors sky and city and references Lye’s interest in movement and light. The building, by Patterson Associates, forms the dramatic colonnade and urban square that photographs beautifully in all weather.

How long should I spend at the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery and Len Lye Centre?

Allow around 1.5-2 hours for a satisfying visit. That gives you time to explore the Govett-Brewster’s current exhibitions, cross into the Len Lye Centre to experience a selection of kinetic works and short films, and stop by the gallery shop. If you can linger for 3-4 hours, you will be able to catch a cinema program, join a tour or talk if one is scheduled, and take a relaxed break at the adjacent café. Art rewards patience, and the works here often reveal more on a second pass, especially Lye’s sculptures and films that unfold over time.

How much does it cost to visit the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery?

General admission to the Govett-Brewster/Len Lye Centre is currently: Visitors NZ$17, New Plymouth District residents free, Under-16s free, 65+ seniors NZ$12, students (16+) NZ$12. Special events and cinema tickets are additional. Always confirm prices and any exhibitions with surcharges on the website before visiting.

How to get to the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery and Len Lye Centre

The gallery is in the heart of New Plymouth CBD at 42 Queen Street, within the compact West End precinct. Its location makes it easy to combine with other city highlights, boutiques, and central eateries, including Monica’s Eatery next door. Campervan travellers coming from State Highway 3 will find clear city wayfinding to the CBD and waterfront car parks.

Best time to visit the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery and Len Lye Centre

The gallery is open daily from mid-morning to late afternoon, so timing your visit is more about the experience you want.

The Gallery is open year-round (except for Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day). Winter and wet days are ideal for galleries and films, while summer light enhances photography of the reflective façade.

Time of day: Morning light can make the Len Lye Centre’s facade glow, which is great for photos before you head inside, although the effect depends on the conditions. Mornings are quieter in galleries, while late afternoon offers warmer light on the façade ahead of early-evening film sessions when scheduled. Check the Gallery’s What’s On and Cinema pages for exhibitions and screenings.

Weather in the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery and Len Lye Centre

Taranaki weather is famously changeable, which makes an indoor cultural stop like this a reliable addition to any itinerary. The mirror façade is highly reflective, making overcast days excellent for photos, while sunny days create strong highlights.

On wet or windy days, the museum becomes a welcome retreat, and films in the Len Lye Centre cinema are often an easy way to spend around an hour, depending on the programme. Whatever the season, a light layer and comfortable shoes will keep you happy as you move between galleries and the cinema.

Best place to park your campervan at the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery and Len Lye Centre

There is no overnight parking at the gallery. For day visits in a campervan, use New Plymouth District Council CBD car parks:

Puke Ariki North Car Park (under Puke Ariki Museum, with access from St Aubyn Street) has spaces for campervans. Typical fees $3/hour, Mon–Sat 9:00–17:00; free on Sundays. From here it’s a short walk (5–7 minutes) to the gallery.
Additional off-street lots (Egmont, Wind Wand) operate on the same tariff hours. Street parking is metered Monday to Saturday, and is free on Sundays. Always check signboards on arrival.

Overnight stays should follow the city’s Freedom Camping Bylaw (2024) and map, which show where self-contained and non-self-contained camping is allowed across the district. Do not freedom camp in the CBD or outside signed areas.

Photography & on-site etiquette

Non-flash photography for personal use is generally permitted in the Gallery, except where signage indicates otherwise; tripods, flash and selfie sticks are not allowed.

Follow staff guidance and exhibition signs. Food and drink aren’t permitted in gallery spaces; a coat/bag check is available at reception.

FAQs and quick answers

What is the Len Lye Centre?
New Zealand’s first facility devoted to a single artist, housing Lye’s collection and archive with exhibitions of experimental film and kinetic sculpture.
Why is the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery building famous?
The mirror-finish stainless-steel façade creates a kinetic light effect and is a destination for architecture fans and photographers.
Is there a cinema at the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery?
Yes, the Len Lye Centre Cinema, an independent boutique cinema with a curated programme, festivals and classics. Check session times before you go!
Is there a map or visitor info for the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery and Len Lye Centre?
Full details to plan your visit, including hours, admission, and accessibility, are on the official site.
Can I take photos?
Usually yes, without flash, except where signs indicate no photography for particular works/exhibitions.