Art Escape Opens for the 20th Time
Written by John Freer on March 4, 2026
Recognition tomorrow night for 20 years of the Mercury Bay Art Escape with its 2026 launch at Hot Water Beach.
A sold out opening event will celebrate the anniversary and see a two weeks of art focus from Whangapoua to Pauanui.
One of the organisers and an artist herself, Sally Samins, said every year numbers increased and now the Art Escape was recognised as the oldest art tour in New Zealand.
Besides their website, Sally tells us all information of Art Escape 2026 can be found at the Whitianga I-Site along with many cafes across the district.
Hear our interview with Sally open the link below.
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midoriko mm On March 6, 2026 at 6:31 pm
20 years is incredible! Congrats to Sally and the whole team for keeping this going. I had no idea Art Escape was the oldest art tour in NZ – that’s something to be really proud of. Wish I could make it to the launch at Hot Water Beach!
[email protected] On March 6, 2026 at 6:31 pm
Love this event. Already sold out though!
David On April 11, 2026 at 10:51 am
A wonderful milestone for the Mercury Bay Art Escape. It’s inspiring to see how the event has grown over 20 years into something so well-loved by the community. Wishing everyone involved a fantastic celebration and a successful 2026 launch!