Last updated July 2026
Atkins Gallery is a specialist art space formerly located within Founders Heritage Park in Nelson, New Zealand. It focused on works by the prominent New Zealand artist Toss Woollaston and other regional talents from the Nelson Tasman area. The gallery has transitioned to an online-only format specialising in Woollaston artworks, with the physical location no longer operating on site. Visitors to the park can still enjoy the surrounding heritage attractions and cultural context that once complemented the gallery experience.
Practical Information
| Location | Founders Heritage Park, 87 Atawhai Drive, Nelson |
| Park opening hours | Daily 10am–4:30pm (closed Good Friday and Christmas Day) |
| Gallery status | Physical gallery closed; online only via atkinsgallery.nz (specialising in Toss Woollaston) |
| Dogs | Not allowed in the park (except licensed service animals) |
| Entry | Park entry fees apply; check founderspark.co.nz for current pricing |
About Atkins Gallery
Atkins Gallery operated as a boutique dealer gallery within Nelson’s Founders Heritage Park, showcasing paintings, drawings and limited edition prints by Toss Woollaston alongside works by other Nelson Tasman artists. Woollaston, a key figure in New Zealand modernism, is known for his landscapes that capture the distinctive light and terrain of the region.
The gallery was established to preserve and promote local artistic heritage. It provided an intimate setting for viewing original works and supported sales of regional art. Recent updates indicate the physical premises have closed, with the operation now continuing online and focused primarily on Woollaston pieces.
Founders Heritage Park itself preserves Nelson’s history through restored buildings, artisan workshops and exhibits. The former gallery location offered easy access to these attractions, including the Founders Cafe and Beer and Hop Museum, creating a combined heritage and cultural visit.
Founders Heritage Park Context
Founders Heritage Park is a family-friendly heritage attraction featuring a collection of historic buildings, gardens and working demonstrations of traditional crafts. It operates daily and includes a short heritage railway line run by the Nelson Railway Society. The park provides context for the region’s artistic and industrial past that once surrounded the Atkins Gallery.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors describe the former gallery as a peaceful spot to view high-quality local and regional art, particularly Woollaston’s evocative landscapes. Many appreciated the intimate scale and the chance to purchase original pieces or prints.
Park visitors note the pleasant setting among heritage buildings and the opportunity to combine art viewing with cafe stops and short walks. The overall atmosphere is praised as relaxed and family-oriented.
Where to Learn More
Founders Heritage Park: Official site with current opening hours, entry fees and park attractions.
Nelson Tasman Tourism: Regional guide to art, heritage and cultural experiences in Nelson.
TripAdvisor Atkins Gallery page: Visitor reviews and photos of the former gallery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Atkins Gallery known for?
It specialised in works by Toss Woollaston and other Nelson Tasman artists, offering original paintings, drawings and prints.
Is the physical Atkins Gallery still open?
No, the physical gallery has closed and now operates as an online gallery specialising in Toss Woollaston artworks.
Where was Atkins Gallery located?
It was situated inside Founders Heritage Park at 87 Atawhai Drive, Nelson, near other heritage attractions.
What are the opening hours of Founders Heritage Park?
The park is open daily from 10am to 4:30pm, closed on Good Friday and Christmas Day.
Can I buy art from Atkins Gallery?
Artwork remains available through the online gallery at atkinsgallery.nz.
Are dogs allowed at Founders Heritage Park?
No, dogs are not permitted except for licensed service animals.
What else can I do at Founders Heritage Park?
The park features heritage buildings, artisan workshops, a cafe, Beer and Hop Museum and a heritage railway line.
Is there an entry fee for the park?
Yes, entry fees apply; check the official park website for current rates and concessions.
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