Free Artist Residencies in New Zealand

McCahon House

Auckland, New Zealand

McCahon House Artist Residencies, located at Parehuia in French Bay, Titirangi, Auckland, support mid-career New Zealand artists by providing a three-month stay in a purpose-built two-bedroom apartment with an attached studio. The program offers time, space, strategic support, and a stipend to help artists advance their visual arts practice in the inspiring environment that influenced Colin McCahon. Three residencies are awarded annually to outstanding professionals across visual arts disciplines.

The Arts Centre Te Matatiki Toi Ora

Christchurch, New Zealand

The Arts Centre Te Matatiki Toi Ora in Christchurch, New Zealand, offers a Creative Residency Programme for creative professionals from diverse fields including visual arts, crafts, music, theatre, dance, film, writing, design, photography, digital and sound art, fashion, and gaming, with stays typically lasting 1-3 months. Residents receive housing in fully furnished rooms with shared living spaces, a daily per diem of $85 NZD, up to $1500 NZD travel support, publicity, and community engagement opportunities, often culminating in public events. A self-funded residency option is also available for 2-10 weeks, providing accommodation without financial support.

Waiheke Community Art Gallery

New Zealand

Name of Residency: Artist in Residence 2025 – Waiheke Island, Aotearoa, New ZealandThe Artist in Residence programme has been run by the Waiheke Community Art Gallery since 2007 with 2025 marking the 10th iteration of this successful biennial event. The programme is made possible through the generous support of our patrons.Our Artist in Residence Programme is an exciting opportunity for an artist to spend 12 weeks living and creating art on beautiful Waiheke Island.This stunning island is 35 min