About 427 Port Road
427 Port Road isn’t a single “mega-venue” but rather a lively town-edge complex that hosts an art gallery, cafés and small shops – most notably The Little Gallery . Opened in late 2017, the Little Gallery was established by owner Faye Saunders (who first launched The Little Gallery in Tairua in 2013) (thecoromandel.nz ). Under her guidance it has become a unique cultural hub in Whangamatā. It’s run as a co-operative with a team of local Coromandel artists volunteering to staff the space (www.whangamata.org.nz ). The gallery showcases over 50 New Zealand artists, focusing especially on homegrown Coromandel talent (www.whangamata.org.nz ) (www.mapquest.com ). Various media are represented – paintings, prints, sculptures, weaving, ceramics and more – so visitors find fresh artwork every week. The address is Shop 3, 427 Port Road, but locals often come simply for the creative vibe. In Kiwi terms, it’s an intimate, friendly spot on town’s main street – a “must-see” cultural rendezvous for travellers and surf-town residents alike (www.whangamata.org.nz ) (www.mapquest.com ).
Events and Programming
The Little Gallery operates year-round (with short closures in winter) and stages frequent new exhibitions. There’s no fixed performance schedule like a concert hall, but patrons can expect themed art shows and openings every few months. For example, past exhibitions have had fun names like “I See” and “35 km Road Trip” inviting visitors to see local scenery and stories through art (www.thelittlegallery.co.nz ) (www.thelittlegallery.co.nz ). It’s common for an artist or curator to be on hand during exhibition launches. The gallery also offers special events like raffles and artist talks; for instance, in October 2025 they collaborated with the Whangamatā Surf Life Saving Club on a “Life Saver” charity raffle (www.thelittlegallery.co.nz ). Besides the gallery, 427 Port Road houses Chill Café and Lazy Lizard Café, which sometimes host informal live music or community meetups (check their social media or hear-say from locals). Overall, the programming is driven by art and community – expect rotating art displays, pop-up markets or casual community events rather than big-ticket concerts. Tickets are rarely needed beyond informal donations on entry; most art events are free to enjoy, and any special workshops or gallery tours (if offered) can be booked directly through Gallery staff or the Discover Whangamatā visitors centre.
Tickets and Booking
427 Port Road’s offerings are generally free and open to the public. The Little Gallery does not charge an entrance fee – you simply walk in during open hours to browse the art. No tickets or reservations are required for a typical visit. There’s no formal box office at 427 Port Road. If an exhibition or special event (like an artist workshop or community art night) were to require signup, those details would usually appear on the gallery’s website or local noticeboards. Chill Café and Lazy Lizard are standard cafés – walk-ins welcome, though Chill Café does accept table bookings (it appears on its TripAdvisor listing that bookings are available) (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). If you want to guarantee a seat at Chill Café on a busy weekend morning, calling ahead on +64 21 985 227 is advisable. But for most purposes, visitors just arrive, pick a table, and order food or coffee.
Seating and Layout
The venue at 427 Port Road is more of a boutiques and café cluster than a stadium, so “seating” varies by shop. In The Little Gallery itself, there are no fixed theatre seats; it’s an open-floor gallery space. You can stand or sit on a bench (if available) to appreciate the art. Exhibit walls line the perimeter and some freestanding pedestals hold sculptures. There’s plenty of floor space for a handful of visitors to wander and chat without feeling cramped. The layout is wheelchair-friendly (no steps at the main entrance) and well-lit with natural light and spotlights on the art. In Chill Café and Lazy Lizard Café next door, you’ll find normal café seating (benches, chairs and tables both indoors and on the sidewalk veranda). Chill Café even allows outdoor seating, perfect for a sunny arvo (afternoon) coffee by the road. If you’re choosing the “best seat in the house,” pick a corner table or an outdoor spot for people-watching on Port Road. Avoid standing on the footpath during peak business hours, as the sidewalk can get busy – use the provided seating areas instead. Overall, there isn’t a formal “bad seat” since it’s not a tiered venue – just grab a chair and enjoy the art or your brunch.
Getting There and Parking
427 Port Road is on Whangamatā’s main street (State Highway 25), about 100 km southeast of Auckland. If driving, you’ll most likely approach via the southern Coromandel highway. The address is easy to spot: it’s mid-block between Whangamatā RSA (the Returned Services Assoc. at 400 Port Road) and Whangamatā Bowling Club (site of The Whangamatā Club at 404 Port Road). Turn off SH25 at the main roundabout (Te Ngutu drive) and head north or south along Port Road – 427 will be on your left if coming from the south, beside Laurenzo’s Pizza. Street parking is available directly outside on Port Road. During weekday business hours, some spots may be metered (check the parking signs), but many stalls are free or a short 2- to 3-hour limit. In summer afternoons or evenings parking is generally unrestricted. There’s also a public carpark a block away (under cover of Whangamatā Township Hall, about 2 minutes’ walk north). For public transit, Fullers GreatSights runs a daily coach service that stops at the Port Road roundabout in Whangamatā – from there 427 Port Road is a 3-minute walk south. InterCity buses connect from Auckland and Hamilton via Thames, terminating near the waterfront (roughly 1 km from the gallery). Taxis and shuttle vans are available but limited. If coming from Whitianga or Auckland airports, the easiest is to rent a car or join Sealink/Fullers ferry plus coach combos to Thames, then a local shuttle or taxi. No train serves Whangamatā. Rideshare apps are sketchy out this way, so plan on a car or bus drop-off at the nearest corner (Caroline Bay or the RSA roundabout) and then walk a few metres to 427 Port Road.
Inside the Venue
At 427 Port Road you’ll find a collection of small businesses under one address. Enter The Little Gallery through the glass door marked “427 Port Road – The Little Gallery.” Inside, expect a relaxed atmosphere: soft background music, bright lighting, and walls hung with colourful artworks. Staff at the desk (often the artist volunteers) will greet you warmly. Feel free to ask questions about the pieces or the artists – one of the joys here is interacting with New Zealand creatives. Beyond the gallery space, Chill Café is literally next door (same building) and offers an array of brunch items and specialty coffee. Chill Café staffs wear easy, friendly service to match the coastal vibe. As Kiwi cafés go, it’s laid-back: you can order at the counter and it’s common to sit and linger. You’ll also find Lazy Lizard Café (at 427) which serves similar fare, as well as Laurenzo’s Pizza offering quick takeaway slices in the evenings. The Little Gallery serves as its own “merch stand” – all artworks and many prints are for sale – and you can browse leisurely or make a purchase. No formal security lines or ID checks here – it’s walk-in. Visitors should keep belongings close (bags are welcome but take care near art), and due to the small space, large backpacks are best left on your back or at your feet. Mobile phone usage is fine for photos (snapshots of sculptures or views of the room are OK), though if an artwork is copyrighted or signed, check with staff before publishing on social media. The overall vibe is chill and communal: expect locals popping in after a surf for art or a coffee, kids releasing energy in the pastel-painted shopfront, and occasional dogs (on leash) at the café tables. Restrooms: The cafés share a tidy toilet at the rear (wheelchair-grade accessible), and you can also use nearby public toilets at the Whangamatā Library/Plaza (one block north) if needed. Mobile phone signal and free Wi-Fi (in Chill Café at least) are generally good, so you can stay connected. All in all, inside 427 Port Road feels safe, open and welcoming – a coastal-town hub for art and good eats.
Nearby Amenities
427 Port Road sits in the heart of Whangamatā town centre, so a wealth of amenities are steps away. If you fancy dining or drinks before or after your visit, Port Road has many options. Directly opposite is The Bar (285 Port Rd) – a local tavern with live music on weekends. One block south, you’ll find The Whangamatā Beach Hotel & Motel, which serves classic Kiwi pub fare. For fine dining, The Smoke Room (on the marina side of Port Rd) is a short stroll north, and it offers contemporary cuisine. Morning coffee run? Besides Chill Café, neighbouring Lazy Lizard also has great brekkie choices, and Hotel Whangamatā around the corner does excellent flat whites. Grocery needs: the Whangamatā Four Square (mini-supermarket) is 200 m away for snacks or picnic supplies. Should you need a quick pharmacy stop, there’s a chemist on Port Road near the police station (2 blocks north). Internet and printing services can be found at the local library across from the Little Gallery (Port Road and Weld Street corner).
For accommodations, several motels and holiday parks are within walking distance. The Southpacific Motel (249 Port Rd) and Coastal Motor Lodge (359 Port Rd) are a few doors up, offering onsite parking and room tariffs. For beachside camping and cabins, Palm Pacific Resort is a 10-minute walk along the boardwalk (right on the estuary by the boat ramp). If staying longer, the golden Whangamatā Surf Beach is just 1 km south – easily reachable by a 15-minute walk or a 3-minute drive. There you’ll find surf rentals and shops (like Whangamatā Beach Surf School) along Ocean Road. Public transport drop-off points: the nearest bus stop is at the RSA/Wheaterston Beach Road corner (a 2-minute walk), and the local taxi stand is by the skate park office one block away. In short, 427 Port Road is on a vibrant strip – cafes, pubs, shops, and beachfront parks are all practically at your doorstep, making it easy to plan a full day around visiting the gallery and enjoying Whangamatā’s laid-back Kiwi charm.
What Makes This Venue Special
427 Port Road truly shines as a microcosm of Whangamatā’s beach-town spirit. Architecturally it’s unassuming – a long single-storey weatherboard facade that blends in with the main street – but culturally it packs a punch. Its claim to fame is The Little Gallery, which founder Faye Saunders calls “a little of the best” (www.whangamata.org.nz ). This gallery has become a beloved landmark; travel guides and locals alike describe it as a *“must-see”* stop for things to do in Whangamatā (thecoromandel.nz ). It channel’s the region’s love of creativity: you’ll often catch the smile of a local artist at the counter, eager to discuss their work. Videos and photos from recent years show colorful art openings, with live folk music or ukulele jams spilling onto the footpath.
Historically, 427 catered to a sleepy surf town — but since the gallery’s 2017 opening it’s helped catalyze an *arts awakening*. While Whangamatā is best known for surf and beach festivals, this venue has quietly built a reputation for creativity. Its exhibitions have even drawn downtown crowds from as far as Tauranga or Auckland, especially on Labour Weekend openings (a traditional local art week). You might glimpse an exhibition called “I See” or photos of surfers in paintings – ties to surf culture run deep. Even the architecture echoes this mix: there’s a high sloped tin roof inside The Gallery room that imitates gentle waves, and wide glass windows that let in light like morning sun over the harbour.
Both people and press highlight 427 Port Road’s uniqueness. The Coromandel tourism site describes it as offering *“a visual feast of New Zealand artwork; a creative experience never to be forgotten.”* (thecoromandel.nz ). Word-of-mouth says it’s a place where visitors slow down – sipping a latte, turning slowly to view art, and chatting with locals. This relaxed vibe, combined with striking original art, makes 427 Port Road special. Locals love it too; many Whangamatā residents count The Little Gallery as their spot to pick up local art (and perhaps a quirky gift or postcard). Artists favor it for its supportive community ethos – many emerging Coromandel artists have had their first exhibitions here. All these aspects – the friendly, family-run feel; the celebration of local culture; and its location right on Edmonton-style Port Road – give 427 Port Road its character. It’s not a corporate mega-venue, but rather an authentic slice of NZ seaside life, beloved by those who value art, surf-town flavor, and genuine Kiwi hospitality (www.whangamata.org.nz ) (www.mapquest.com ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Here are some practical tips to make the most of your visit to 427 Port Road:
Accessibility: Both The Little Gallery and Chill Café are wheelchair accessible (no steps at the entrance) (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). There are wide aisles in the gallery and level outdoor seating at the café. If you have mobility needs, you can get curbside taxi drop-off right out front.What to Bring: Pack staggered hours or arrive early during summer crowds. Wear comfortable walking shoes (Port Road is flat concrete footpath). Bringing a small bag is fine, but avoid large backpacks in the gallery (no cloakroom, so just keep it in front or wear it). Sunscreen and a hat are handy if you plan to sit outside at the café. It never hurts to bring a camera or phone for photos of the art (non-flash only) – just ask permission before close-ups of featured pieces.Food & Drink: Photography of the art is OK for personal use, but note anything you purchase is take-home rather than for onsite display. Liquids and hot drinks are allowed only in café areas; it’s best not to walk around the gallery with beverages. If you look thirsty, Chill Café offers excellent NZ flat whites, smoothies and brunch. Tip: their friendly baristas know all the locals by name. Outside food isn’t needed (the cafes will welcome you), but there is a public water fountain at the library across the street if you need to refill a bottle.Dress Code and Conduct: It’s a casual beach-town vibe – no formal attire required. Shorts and a tee are common. Do leave beach gear (like surfboards) at the car or nearby store racks; crowded sidewalks aren’t ideal for large items. Polite behaviour is important: keep voices moderate so patrons can enjoy the art, and supervise children carefully around fragile exhibits. Smoking isn’t allowed inside any shop; NZ law requires smoking be done away from doorways. Photography outside (on the Port Road sidewalk) is fine if you’re capturing the building or street scene, but again, no flashes among artwork, and always respect any “no photos” sign by Holt Cafe or others.Age Restrictions: All ages are welcome. There’s no minimum age to visit – the art is family-friendly. However, very young children may need close supervision around art pieces. Both the gallery and cafés welcome kids (Chill Café even has highchairs for toddlers (www.tripadvisor.co.nz )). If bringing a stroller, the entranceways are wide enough, but be mindful of space.Similar Names: Note that 427 Port Road itself is a complex of shops. Don’t confuse it with nearby clubs or bars (The Whangamata Club is at 404 Port Road, two minutes away). Also, the local tourism site often refers to “The Little Gallery Whangamatā” when describing 427 Port Road, and it’s right next to Chill Café with an orange awning. If in doubt, look for Laurenzo’s pizza sign by the entrance to find the shops.Weather Policies: All venues inside 427 Port Road are indoors, so bad weather won’t cancel your visit. Chill Café has covered seating. Even on rainy days, expect a cosy vibe inside. In case of any special event (rare) being rescheduled due to weather, announcements would be on local noticeboards or the Discover Whangamatā website.Insider Tip: Locals often funny-call it “427” as shorthand. If you’re hoping to pick up something unique, ask the staff about upcoming exhibition openings (they sometimes have evening “wine and art” nights when a new show starts). Also, because the gallery rotates artworks weekly, even return visits a week apart will give you something new to see. Finally, since Whangamatā is a popular holiday spot, consider visiting on a weekday in off-season for a quiet experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the address and contact info for 427 Port Road?
The primary address is 427 Port Road, Whangamatā 3620, NZ . This houses The Little Gallery and adjacent cafés. There isn’t a single venue website, but The Little Gallery’s owner Faye Saunders can be reached at 021 888 420 (also listed on gallery signage). Chill Café next door lists its phone as +64 21 985 227. No separate post-box address is needed beyond “427 Port Road.”
What are the opening hours for The Little Gallery at 427 Port Road?
The Little Gallery is typically open from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm, Wednesday through Monday , with Tuesdays closed (www.thelittlegallery.co.nz ). (Hours may be extended in peak summer; the winter schedule is 10–3.) Chill Café, its neighbour, generally opens at 7:00 am daily for breakfast and coffee (see FAQ on Chill’s hours). Always check the front window or the Discover Whangamatā website for any holiday changes.
Is there an entry fee or ticket required for the gallery?
No tickets are needed to visit the gallery. Entry to The Little Gallery is free of charge . You can walk right in and enjoy the art exhibits without buying anything. The gallery space operates on voluntary donations and artwork purchases. The cafés don’t charge an admission fee either – just pay for whatever food or drinks you order. In short, plan your visit without buying a ticket in advance.
Do I need to book ahead for events or shows at 427 Port Road?
Generally no. The Little Gallery runs regular exhibitions and casual events, and these are mostly drop-in affairs. There’s usually no need to reserve a spot. For special workshops or artist talks (which are infrequent), the gallery would advise on booking. For private parties or commercial use of the space, you would need to arrange this separately with the gallery owner. But for typical visits or gallery openings, just show up.
Are there good parking options near 427 Port Road?
Yes. Street parking runs along both sides of Port Road; spots right in front of 427 are often available. On weekdays there may be time limits (look for signs), but evenings and weekends usually have ample free parking. Additionally, one block north there’s a public carpark next to the township hall (Warder Street) that’s also free. If those are full, the Whangamatā Sportsgrounds carpark (under the hill, 5 min walk) is another option. Just avoid blocking driveways.
How do I get to 427 Port Road by public transport?
Public transport is limited in Whangamatā, but there are a few ways. The Fullers GreatSights coach from Auckland or Hamilton stops at the Port Road roundabout, which is a 3–4 minute walk to 427 Port Road. InterCity buses also link from larger cities via Thames (they drop off near the waterfront; add a short taxi ride or walk). Taxis and community shuttle vans can also pick you up in town and drop at the 427 entrance. There’s no train station or night tram, so most locals rely on cars or tour buses.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Both the Little Gallery and Chill Café have step-free entrances and are marked wheelchair accessible (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). The gallery floor is wide and open, so wheelchairs and strollers fit easily. Restroom facilities in the nearby cafés are single-stall and suitable for wheelchair use. As a tip, the front door doesn’t have a heavy step, but there is a small lip – staff or friends can help with the threshold if needed. Otherwise it’s very easy for wheelchair users.
What kind of art and items are sold at The Little Gallery?
The Little Gallery sells a wide range of New Zealand art. You’ll find original paintings (landscapes, abstracts, surf scenes), limited-edition prints, wood carvings, metal sculptures, fibre art, pottery and jewellery – all by NZ artists. Prices vary from modest (around $20 for small prints or postcards) to premium (thousands for large canvases). It also stocks local craft items like coasters, mugs and handcrafted ornaments. Since most artists in the gallery volunteer, you can often meet them and even request private commissions.
Are there any age restrictions or dress codes?
No age restrictions exist – children and families are welcome. It’s common to see tourists of all ages strolling through. Just be sure to supervise young kids around artworks. There is no formal dress code : casual beachwear is totally fine. You’ll fit right in with shorts and a t-shirt or sundress. If you plan to have a coffee at Chill Café afterwards, just dress comfortably – it’s a laid-back café with no fancy attire needed. (Just note that beach swimwear, like bare feet or wet bathing suits, might be frowned upon indoors.)
What is the capacity of the gallery spaces?
Since 427 Port Road is a small retail space, it doesn’t list an official capacity. In practice, the gallery can comfortably hold around 20–30 people at once without feeling crowded. Chill Café next door can seat roughly 25–30 patrons (indoors and outdoors combined). If you’re planning a private event or group outing, talk to the gallery staff – they can give you guidance on numbers and possibly close one side of the gallery for a group visit. But for normal walk-in traffic, it simply flows – people come and go naturally, and staff manage as needed.
Does 427 Port Road host live performances or just art exhibits?
Primarily it’s an art and café precinct. The Little Gallery doesn’t have a built-in stage or PA system, so it doesn’t regularly host concerts or theatre -- it focuses on visual art exhibitions. That said, special events like art openings or charity fundraisers may feature live acoustic music (local musicians often volunteer for gallery openings). The nearby Whangamatā Club (400 Port Road) and The Bar (285 Port Road), just around the corner, handle larger live entertainment (darts, bands, DJs) if you’re looking for nightlife.
What food and drink options are available on site?
Chill Café (vegetarian-friendly) and Lazy Lizard Café share 427 Port Road. Both serve full breakfasts and light lunches with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options (localista.co.nz ). Chill Café is known for excellent coffee and homemade cabinet lunches. Lazy Lizard offers sandwiches, wraps and smoothies. Prices are moderate ($5–$15 per item). For picnickers, the cafés allow takeaway, so you can grab a sandwich and take a seat at one of their outdoor tables. There’s also Laurenzo’s (pizzas) on the same block if you fancy a slice. Alcohol isn’t served at the cafes (they’re cafés, not bars), but across Port Road is a bottle shop and within a block is Hotel Whangamatā (beer and wine available there).
Are restrooms and coat checks available at 427 Port Road?
Restrooms are available, but through Café facilities. Chill Café has a clean customer restroom at the back, and Laurēnzo’s next door also has a kitchenette toilet entry for cafe patrons. The gallery itself has no separate restroom. There is no coat check or cloakroom; however the space is small so you won’t typically have large bags or coats piled up. If visiting in winter or rainy weather, you might use closet space in the café area. The friendly staff at Chill Café can often store small items behind the counter if needed.
Can I hold a private event or meeting at The Little Gallery?
Possibly, with arrangements. The Little Gallery & Chill Café area can be rented out after hours or on quieter days (since it’s otherwise a retail space). For example, local groups sometimes have small functions or workshops there. To organize a private event, contact the gallery owners in advance to discuss timing and fees (they’ll want to protect their art exhibits). Note that the venue isn’t sound-proofed or large, so it’s best for intimate gatherings (up to 30 people). Catering would likely be handled by Chill Café or another local caterer.
What happens if we visit during a public holiday or off-season?
During NZ public holidays or busy seasons (summer), hours may vary. The Little Gallery often closes on certain holidays (e.g. Christmas Day, Boxing Day, some stat days). If the gallery is closed, you’ll generally see a notice on the door or posted on local event boards. Chill Café sometimes has special holiday hours (it might open later or close early on some holidays). In the off-season (winter), the gallery might shorten hours (the 10–3 schedule is winter-time). If you plan a trip around a specific date, it’s best to confirm hours via the Discover Whangamatā website or by phoning ahead.
Any insider tips for first-time visitors?
Yes. First, check out the chalkboard outside Chill Café – it often has daily specials and notes on any live music or gallery events. Second, visit on a Wednesday or Saturday morning if possible, when new art usually arrives (many artworks are rotated weekly). Third, don’t miss the chance to chat with an artist if they’re there; they’re very approachable and love to chat about their work. Finally, consider combining your visit with a walk on Whangamatā Beach (a few minutes’ drive) or seafood lunch at the pier – you’ll get the most out of the coastal town experience.
