An Evening of Opera and Art - Auction List
Original artworks and memorabilia
Reuben Nicklin
Kahungunu, 2023
Framed photograph: 940 x 635 mm
In this work, Manawatu artist Reuben Nicklin depicts Kahungunu, the prominent 15th-century Māori leader, explorer, and eponymous ancestor of Ngāti Kahungunu. It depicts the story of Kahungunu’s emergence from the sea with enough kaimoana for all the occupants of his village. When he surfaced from his final dive, he had covered his chest with pāua, and won the heart of his beloved Rongomaiwahine. This work was a finalist in the Kiingi Tuheitia Portraiture Award in 2023.
Estimate: $1,000 - $2,000
Simon Williams
Piha Reflections, 2025
Oil on canvas: 40 x 84cm
Dunedin-born artist Simon Williams began painting while living in Sydney during the late 1980s. On his return to New Zealand Williams based himself in Auckland. Often working in plein air, Williams has long been acknowledged as one of New Zealand’s leading landscape painters. His works are commissioned and enjoyed by an international clientele.
Estimate: $2,000 - $3,000
Toss Woollaston
Untitled
Watercolour: 23 x 36 cm
An incredible opportunity to own an artwork by one of NZ’s most important painters of the 20th century. An admirer of Cézanne from his early years, Woollaston’s ability to use colour has been described as a “manner suggestive of luminosity.”
Estimate: $3,000 – $6,000
A collection of eight black and white ceramic plates hand-painted by the following NZ artists in 2008:
Richard Killeen
Lisa Reihana
Karl Maughan
Ronnie van Hout
Julian Dashper (2 plates)
Marie Shannon
Linda Holloway
Estimate: $2,000 - $3,000
Pâte de verre hat in clear and scarlet Gaffer Glass
Artist: Victoria Rodgers
Estimate: $2,000 - $3,000
Created in March 2005 and guaranteed to be the only one of its kind, this pâte de verre glass hat was created by Victoria Rodgers, one of New Zealand’s most highly respected glass artists.
Crowning Glory
An exclusive opportunity to secure a stunning piece of New Zealand operatic memorabilia. Macbeth’s blooded crown is one of a kind piece of theatrical art, worn on stage by Philip Rhodes during New Zealand Opera’s 2022 production of Verdi‘s Macbeth.
Designed by Netia Jones (director and designer of Macbeth), the crown was sculpted, 3D printed and painted by Luke Fisher Design, making it a unique work of art. Several plastic prototypes were made to check the size, fit and look, before the final two crowns were made. The crown is offered for auction, together with a stunning framed print of the performance.
Estimate: $2,000 - $3,000
Exclusive experiences
Diva for a Day
An exclusive, never before offered, opportunity to step into the world of opera as a ‘Diva for a Day’, including your very own hair, make-up and on-stage photo shoot with New Zealand Opera’s talented crew.
• On stage photo-shoot followed by refreshments and dress rehearsal.
• Return to experience opening night with 2 VIP tickets including pre- and post-performance drinks and canapés.
· A chance to meet the artists after the performance.
Estimate: $2,000 - $3,000
A Night at the Opera
A VIP experience for two to join New Zealand Opera for the opening night of a headline production in Auckland.
Includes one night’s accommodation at Auckland’s art deco styled Hotel DeBrett, and a chance to meet the artists after the performance.
With thanks to Village Accommodation Group.
Estimate: $1,000 - $2,000
Escape to Melbourne, the Cultural Capital of Australia!
Seven nights’ accommodation for six people in a Southbank apartment, located just a short stroll from the Yarra River and close to the Melbourne Arts Precinct. Melbourne is home to a range of galleries and performing arts institutions, including the National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne Opera and Australian Ballet.
The three-bedroom apartment is part of Southbank Royal, with a large internal courtyard area, a tennis court, swimming pool, gym and BBQ facilities.
This would make a wonderful gift for family and friends.
Estimate: $2,000 - $3,000