Te Papa announces new art gallery space

Te Papa's Ngā Toi Arts gallery is set to close for renovations on February 26 and its new art space will be unveiled in late 2017. Photo / Mark Mitchell

The home of some of the most prized Kiwi artworks is getting a makeover.

Te Papa chief executive Rick Ellis today announced museum's fifth and sixth floor, which house its art collection, would get a facelift in late 2017.

Other permanent exhibits will also be refurbished over the next few years.

The museum's Ngā Toi Arts Te Papa gallery is set to close for renovations on February 26 and its new art space will be unveiled in late 2017.

The new two storey gallery will span the fourth and fifth floor of the museum.

It will be 35 per cent larger than Ngā Toi Arts Te Papa, boasting 8m-high walls, which will allow Te Papa to host large sculptures and immersive art exhibits.

Te Papa estimated the renovations would cost $6 million.

Ellis said museum management hoped the renovations would put Te Papa on the map as a must-see destination for Kiwis.

"The new art space will enable us to show more of the national art collection, and create a world-class art experiences for our visitors."

Head of art Charlotte Davy said the design of gallery would provide artists greater flexibility.

"We are creating new opportunities for New Zealand artists, as we commission new works to feature in this stunning new gallery."

It would feature a dedicated area for works by New Zealand artists, including Charles Goldie, Rita Angus, Colin McCahon and Ralph Hotere.

Two level four exhibits - a 20th Century history gallery and a kids' discovery centre - would close for construction on Tuesday January 26.