Whangārei Heads Art Trail Christmas taster brings local art to town

Stunning jewellery by Emma Verberne is among the items for sale in the Whangārei Heads Arts Trail taster.

Art lovers and Christmas shoppers alike will be able to enjoy the talent of local artists with a one-off exhibition of the Whangārei Heads Art Trail this weekend.

The Whangārei Heads Arts Trail has been running successfully at Easter since 2012, exhibiting and selling a wide variety of work by local artists.

Now, for the first time, a two-day Christmas taster at Whangārei Cruising Club will give art lovers a titbit of what is to come at Easter 2026.

There will be a wide range of quality artwork on display and for sale, said Whangārei Heads artist Shona Firman, whose own glass canoes are part of the exhibition.

Other highlights include stained glass art set in wood by Karin de Beer, exquisite jewellery by Emma Verberne, paintings by Ross Mann and furniture by Don Grimwood.

There will also be a wide range of paintings, ceramics, woodwork, metal work, mosaics and jewellery by a range of other artists.

It will also be a great chance for people to buy Christmas presents while supporting local artists, she said.

The Whangārei Heads Art Trail has previously held a pop-up store in Parua Bay before Christmas, Firman said.

But this will be the first time a two-day taster event has been held at the Whangārei Cruising Club at Kissing Point.

The location boasts lovely views and plenty of car parking, plus the option to grab a coffee or food while shopping, Firman said.

The Christmas Taster will be open at the Whangārei Cruising Club from 10am to 4pm on Saturday, December 6 and Sunday, December 7.

Denise Piper is a news reporter for the Northern Advocate, focusing on health and business. She has more than 20 years in journalism and is passionate about covering stories that make a difference.