Overview
The Suter Art Gallery Te Aratoi o Whakatu was founded as a memorial to the second bishop of Nelson, Andrew Burn Suter, it opened in 1899 which makes it the oldest gallery in continuous use throughout the country. Situated next to the picturesque Queen's garden, The Suter showcases Nelson's visual arts heritage as well as upcoming contemporary artists — the gallery is home to more than 40 watercolours by John Gully and around 100 drawings and watercolours by local Nelson artist Sir M Tosswill Woollaston, one of New Zealand's leading modernist painters.
In addition, The Suter boasts a smart little cafe which slings Havana Coffee and tasty gourmet treats; a 159-seat cinema where screenings and theatrical events take place; and a well-stocked gift shop that's full of handmade jewellery and homewares as well as books and gallery merchandise. When purchasing from the gift shop you can be assured that you are helping to support the many contributing artists and the art gallery — which is a nice little added bonus. The best news is, the gallery is free entry all year round.