Banksy to take over central Auckland in 2018

  • 22/11/2017

The works of British street artist Banksy are coming to New Zealand in January 2018.

Eighty of the anonymous illustrator's best pieces will be displayed at Auckland's Aotea Centre as part of the Art of Banksy exhibition, which has already had showings in Istanbul, Amsterdam, Melbourne and Tel Aviv.

The exhibition, which is made up of pieces all privately-owned by collectors and is the largest Banksy display ever, will run from January 5 to February 6, 2018.

The display has been curated by Banksy's former manager Steve Lazarides, and includes two of his most famous pieces, 'Girl and Balloon' and 'Laugh Now'.

Banksy is famed for his satirical and socially conscious graffiti, and for keeping his identity a secret.

Auckland Mayor Phil Goff says the exhibition shows a renewed focus on arts and culture for the city.

"Auckland has a vibrant art culture and this exciting exhibition of Banksy's collection is a huge win for our city," he said.

"I look forward to seeing Aucklanders embrace this opportunity to engage with works by one of the world's most prolific, enigmatic and outspoken artists."

Tickets to the exhibition are now on sale via Ticketmaster, with an earlybird Christmas gift price currently in place.

Newshub.