As the festive season approaches, join Friends of Te Papa for a special pre-Christmas evening that brings together two of life’s great pleasures: exceptional art and outstanding Champagne. Hosted in partnership with Normanby Fine Wines and Webb’s Wellington, this unique event offers an engaging exploration of how creativity, craftsmanship and a sense of place can be expressed through both visual art and fine wine.
The evening begins with a private guided tour of Into Summer, Webb’s final selling exhibition of 2026. Showcasing an outstanding selection of works by artists from across Aotearoa, the exhibition features photography, sculpture, prints and original paintings, many created especially for the occasion. Thoughtfully curated for the summer season, the exhibition highlights modestly scaled works that are perfect for gifting or adding to a personal collection. Featured artists include Levi Hawken, Maija Stephens, Rachel Hope Allan, Trantham Gordon, Yae Takahashi and many others.
Following the gallery tour, guests will gather around Normanby’s communal tasting table for a highly engaging Champagne experience. Rather than a traditional wine tasting, this event has been designed as a conversation between art and wine. Each Champagne will be paired with a selected artwork from the exhibition, creating an opportunity to explore unexpected connections between what we taste and what we see.
Guiding the evening will be Tom Mapplebeck, Wellington Manager of Normanby Fine Wines, who will introduce eight remarkable Champagnes and share the stories behind their producers, vineyards and distinctive styles. Joining him will be Sophie Thorn, art specialist at Webb’s, who will present the paired artworks and discuss the parallels between fine art and fine wine, from concepts of provenance and craftsmanship to creative expression, character and individuality.
Guests will enjoy eight exceptional Champagnes, including:
• Veuve Clicquot Rosé
• Lilbert Blanc de Blancs
• Jacquart Expérience
• Paul Bara Brut Réserve
• Michel Reybier
• Henri Giraud Esprit
• Pierre Bertrand Premier Cru
• Les Monts Fournois Luxe Premier Cru
Several of these Champagnes are rarely available and unique to Normanby Fine Wines, making this an exceptional opportunity for wine enthusiasts to discover bottles not easily found elsewhere. As a special benefit for attendees, all Champagnes tasted during the evening will be available to purchase at a discounted price following the event.
To complete the experience, all artworks featured in Into Summer will be available for purchase and may be taken home on the night.