Mahara Gallery

Mahara Gallery shows a wide range of contemporary art from Kapiti-based and New Zealand-wide artists in a range of different media including; photography, painting, sculpture, video/film, ceramics and jewellery.

The Mahara Gallery is the district public gallery for the Kāpiti Coast. It was founded by artists and volunteers as a charitable trust in 1996. Its governance is the responsibility of a Board of Trustees. Currently there are six trustees, one appointed by Kāpiti Coast District Council. 

The gallery operates out of the original Waikanae library building, provided by the Kāpiti Coast District Council. It receives some private financial support as well as funding from the Council to cover operational costs. The exhibition programme balances quality local and national content, works in partnership with local iwi and reflects the diversity of the Kāpiti arts community.