A travelling exhibition featuring works created by well-recognised and emerging artists with strong connections to Ōpōtiki, will be shown in Wellington next year.

Following successful exhibitions in Tauranga's Goddard Arcade and Auckland's Studio One Toi Tū, The Real Ōpōtiki has been invited to exhibit in Bowen House in Wellington this February.

East Coast MP Anne Tolley, who'll be part of the opening event for the exhibition, is pleased to invite The Real Ōpōtiki to Bowen House.

'My home electorate has some incredibly talented artists, and this exhibition is a wonderful opportunity to showcase the unique art that's being created there.

'I'm looking forward to showing some of my colleagues around the display, and I encourage everyone to come along for a taste of sunny Ōpōtiki right here in the capital.”

‘Copper Poi' by Anna Gedson on display in Tauranga's Goddard Arcade earlier this year. Photo: David Tauranga

The exhibition not only showcases the talent of Ōpōtiki but also aims to raise funds for Te Tāhuhu ō te Rangi – a community space, research centre and library that's been planned for the district.

Ōpōtiki Deputy Mayor Lyn Riesterer says it's a delight to have the opportunity to display incredible Ōpōtiki art in Wellington.

'It's a two-fold win for the project; supporting Ōpōtiki artists and raising awareness and funds for our new facility, back home.

'Bowen House is a beautiful location in the heart of Wellington and we are very proud to have our art on display in such a well-known building.

'We are also very pleased that our local MP and Minister for Local Government Anne Tolley is opening the exhibition and introducing our art to Wellingtonians.”

The Real Ōpōtiki exhibition will open to the public at Bowen House in Wellington on February 9 and finishes March 10, 2017.

‘Notable Faces Series' by Mark Anstis on display in Tauranga's Goddard Arcade earlier this year. Photo: David Tauranga