Last updated July 2026
The Feilding and District Art Society operates the Feilding Art Centre at 104 Manchester Street, serving as a community arts hub for Feilding and the wider Manawatū district roughly 20 minutes north of Palmerston North. The organisation traces its roots to 1969 when local artists began informal activities, with the incorporated society formed in 2003 to manage the dedicated centre. It now supports over 200 members and offers rotating exhibitions, a shop of local handmade work, classes, and the annual Manawatū Art Expo.
Practical Information
| Location | 104 Manchester Street, Feilding |
| Distance from Palmerston North | About 20 km north, 20-25 minute drive |
| Established | Roots in 1969; incorporated society formed 2003 |
| Membership | Over 200 members |
| Exhibitions | Change monthly; members and invited artists |
| Opening Hours | 10am-4pm weekdays, 10am-1pm Saturdays; closed Sundays |
| Annual Event | Manawatū Art Expo each July |
About the Feilding and District Art Society
The Feilding and District Art Society manages the Feilding Art Centre as a central point for visual arts in rural Manawatū. It began with informal artist gatherings and annual exhibitions at the Feilding Little Theatre from 1969 onward. In 2003 separate creative groups merged to form the incorporated society that now runs the purpose-built centre.
The centre features monthly exhibitions of work by emerging and established artists from the region and beyond. A shop stocks handcrafted items including paintings, ceramics, jewellery and sculpture created by members. Upstairs spaces host affordable art classes for children, while downstairs areas support workshops and artist groups.
The society also maintains a collection of Salvador Dalí etchings and Joan Miró lithographs, some of which are shown or offered during events. It runs the Manawatū Art Expo each July as a major fundraiser and celebration of regional talent, alongside other exhibitions such as the Manawatū Art Awards.
Visiting the Art Centre
Entry to the gallery and shop is free, with donations welcomed. The volunteer-supported operation means hours can vary, so phoning ahead on (06) 323 2323 is recommended for special trips. The centre welcomes visitors interested in viewing, purchasing or learning about local art.
Combining with Other Feilding Activities
The Art Centre lies in central Feilding near the Friday livestock saleyards, one of the largest in the Southern Hemisphere, and close to the Coach House Museum. Manchester Street offers cafes and browsing opportunities, while nearby Mt Lees Reserve provides a short native bush walk. These stops combine easily into a half-day outing from Palmerston North.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors describe the centre as a welcoming small-town arts hub with fresh, high-quality regional work on display. The monthly exhibition changes keep displays interesting, and the shop of handmade local products receives frequent mentions for gift purchases.
Practical notes include variable opening hours due to volunteer staffing, so calling ahead helps. Many combine the visit with the Friday saleyards, museum or street browsing rather than treating it as a standalone destination. Checking the website for current shows and expo dates is advised.
Where to Learn More
Feilding Art Society official site: current exhibitions, membership details, shop information and Manawatū Art Expo dates.
Manawatu NZ tourism listing: visitor information and context for the Feilding Art Centre.
Coastal Arts Trail listing: regional arts trail context and participation opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Feilding Art Society?
104 Manchester Street in central Feilding, about 20 minutes drive north of Palmerston North.
When was the society established?
Roots date to 1969 with informal activities at the Feilding Little Theatre; the incorporated Feilding and District Art Society formed in 2003.
How many members does it have?
Over 200 members.
How often do exhibitions change?
Exhibitions change monthly, featuring members’ work alongside invited artists.
Is the gallery free to enter?
Yes, gallery entry is free with donations welcomed.
Can I buy artwork?
Yes, member work is available through exhibitions and the shop stocks handmade local products.
What are the opening hours?
10am to 4pm weekdays and 10am to 1pm Saturdays; closed Sundays.
What else can I do in Feilding the same day?
Combine with the Friday Feilding Saleyards, Coach House Museum, Manchester Street browsing or a walk at Mt Lees Reserve.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.