Michelangelo
Experience Michelangelo's greatest masterpieces like never before this summer in Christchurch!
Making its South Island debut, Michelangelo: A Different View arrives at Te Pae Christchurch this December, offering visitors a breathtaking new perspective on one of history's greatest artistic achievements. This internationally acclaimed exhibition showcases Michelangelo's magnificent Sistine Chapel frescoes at near-original scale and at eye level, allowing audiences to explore every detail of these world-famous works up close — including the iconic Creation of Man.
Under license from the Vatican Museums, this exhibition offers the most complete and authentic reproduction of Michelangelo’s beautiful ceiling frescoes of the Sistine Chapel to be shown outside the Vatican
Having captivated audiences around the world, Michelangelo: A Different View presents a rare opportunity to experience the beauty, artistry and genius of the Renaissance master in an immersive and accessible format … and without having to travel to Rome!
Don't miss this extraordinary exhibition celebrating one of the most influential artists of all time. Book your tickets now.
Opening Times
18 December 2026 - 17 January 2027 (closed Christmas Day)
Public Hours: 10am - 4:30pm (last entry at 4pm)
VIP Experience: 4:30pm – 6:30pm
Average viewing time: 1.5-2 hours
Tickets
**Earlybird Special (available until the 24th December at midnight):
Anyday, Anytime Adult Ticket
Online: $39 (+ booking fee + credit card charge)
Door Sales: $45 (including booking fee + credit card charge)
Concessions:
Students (must show student ID on entry):
Online: $39 (+ booking fee + credit card charge)
Door Sales: $45 (including booking fee + credit card charge)
Children: 12 years and under are free and must be accompanied by an adult
VIP Experience
For those seeking something truly special, join us for an exclusive VIP Experiencefor a maximum of 40 people daily (after public hours) at 4.30pm.
- A personal presentation with Dr Christopher Longhurst
- Opportunity to explore the gallery at your own pace.
- Canapés crafted daily by Te Pae's chefs
- A glass of wine from a choice of Marlborough’s renowned Hunter’s Winery
- Tickets available only online. Bookings essential.
VIP Experience Ticket: $117 (+ booking fee + credit card charge, online purchase required, adults only)
While You're Here
There's more to enjoy beyond the exhibition:
The Michelangelo Merchandise Shop
Take home something special from a collection of quality memorabilia. No items are available for sale online.
Public Café
Drop in for a coffee or a bite to eat at our café - open to everyone, no ticket required.
The average time is between 1.5 and 2 hours.
The exhibition features genuine prints of the original works.
We encourage the attendance of children by making entry free for youngsters under 12 years of age, accompanied by at least one adult.
No children in the VIP tours.
Yes, personal photography is encouraged, though you won’t be able to use your flash. Professional photography and flash photography is not permitted.
When posting images and comments on social media, please tag us in @MADVCHRISTCHURCH and share your experience as widely as possible.
Yes, download the exhibition audio guide via the QR code at the gallery entrance, or access it via the link included in your confirmation email upon purchase. Bring your own earbuds or headphones — or simply hold your smartphone to your ear — and listen as you move through the gallery immersed in images, storytelling and sound.
There is also a Reading Guide for visitors with hearing difficulties, and a written guide in Te Reo Māori.
There is limited seating inside the Exhibition, additional seating is available in the foyer and in the café outside the exhibition.
Te Pae Christchurch is a cashless venue therefore this event is also.
There is no external catering allowed in the venue; and no food or drink permitted in the exhibition area.
Te Pae Christchurch is surrounded by multiple off-street parking options, including nearby EV charging stations and cycle stands, all within easy walk of the centre.
Toilets are available outside of the exhibition in the exhibition foyer concourse.
Prams may be taken inside exhibition. A Pram-park is also available in the foyer area. Ask staff for assistance
Entrance to the Exhibition is through our Gloucester Street Entrance, please find an interactive 360 tour for easy reference here.
The exhibition is fully wheelchair accessible. This is an immersive experience, so the exhibition has low lighting. Te Pae Christchurch has two wheelchairs available for guests to use inside the exhibition.
Registered disability assist animals are permitted inside the exhibition, we do ask as per requirements of the Dog Control Act 1996 the dogs always wear their working vest whilst in the venue, identifying their role. Should the service animal need to be taken outside to relieve itself, please ask one of our team for assistance.
Yes, Te Pae Christchurch is a Hāpai Access Card certified venue. Hāpai cardholders will be entitled to services as outlined on the Hāpai website and must show a valid Hāpai ID card. We also recognise the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyard, so just reach out to our team if you need any assistance.
Te Pae Christchurch participates in the Hidden disabilities sunflower program. For more information about Hidden Disabilities Sunflower and their range of resources visit the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower website.
