Te Papa's exciting new art gallery, Toi Art, is opening with a bang. Auckland's very own alternative electronica group SoccerPractice and dream pop sensation Chelsea Jade will be performing live for your entertainment.

Having been described as "New Zealand's "Accidental Dream Pop Hero" by Vice, Chelsea Jade has gone from strength to strength. Now based in LA, the Kiwi songwriter's most recent achievement is a lyrics credit on the new single from The Chainsmokers. She is gearing up to release her highly-anticipated debut album this year.

Self-described "genre benders" SoccerPractice are indeed a one-of-a-kind group. Not only are their live sets mesmerising and genre-mashing techniques attention grabbing, but their use of te reo Māori is a refreshing breakaway from the mainstream. With their eponymous debut album being released to praise in November last year, expect an impressive showcase of local talent.

The new two-level gallery will welcome five new exhibitions and ten exclusive new artworks that together "give a sense of what New Zealand art is, and how it fits within the Pacific." A new, yet-to-be-announced project by leading contemporary artist Michael Parekowhai will be one of the first to inhabit the new space. It is set to be opened by Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern this weekend.

Image: James K Lowe.