OUR STORY - Wellington’s Boutique Art Gallery
The Vault is a hidden local artistry gem in Wellington’s CBD, filled with beautiful curated gifts, ceramics, glass, art and jewellery. Hand-crafted creations made and designed in New Zealand by local artists, designers and creatives, mixed with some international brands, have been The Vault’s speciality for over 30 years.
As a local artistry gallery, we love representing the amazing artists we have here in Aotearoa and helping our customers find that perfect NZ-made gift, item for their home or piece of handcrafted jewellery.
The Vault is an iconic Wellington boutique art gallery and gift store and should definitely be on your list of places to visit whilst in the Capital city. Visit us at 2 Plimmer Steps in Wellington’s CBD, or browse our collections online.
We look forward to seeing you.
Meet Penelope
Hi, I’m Penelope. In 1996, I joined The Vault team as the assistant manager and soon discovered what an amazing team and environment The Vault was to work in.
I’ve always loved art and design, so working in this creative space was the perfect job for me. The manager at the time, Annette McLeod, took me under her wing and taught me everything I needed to know about the job. I loved learning about the artists we stocked, and merchandising quickly became a passion of mine.
In 2006, I had the opportunity to become manager of the Wellington store, and in August 2019, I became the proud owner.
I am so happy to be able to continue what the original owners, Sarah and Philip Solaris, created while adding my own flair. This iconic Wellington store has so much history and style. When customers share their memories of shopping at The Vault over the years, the pieces they’ve purchased and why they still love to visit us, it really does mean a lot to me.
I’m incredibly proud to continue The Vault’s legacy and support the talented New Zealand artists, designers and makers behind so many of the pieces we showcase.
The Vault – 2 Plimmer Steps, Wellington CBD
Tel +64 (0)4 471 1404
THE VAULT, 2 PLIMMER STEPS, WELLINGTON CBD
HERE’S A BIT OF HISTORY ABOUT THE VAULT
AUCKLAND VAULT 1991 – The first Vault store was established in Auckland’s CBD, in the former basement vault of the first ANZ bank in New Zealand. From the beginning, The Vault showcased New Zealand works alongside international design products.
WELLINGTON VAULT 1992 – The second store opened above the corner of Willis Street and Lambton Quay. The remarkable historic space became home to exhibitions of local sculpture and design work, as well as the popular Vault café.
CHRISTCHURCH VAULT 1993 – The Christchurch store opened above the historic Cashel Mall in central Christchurch and became a flagship for The Vault’s distinctive approach to interiors, displays and design.
WELLINGTON VAULT 1996 – The Wellington store relocated to the historic McKenzie building at 50 Willis Street. Following an ambitious renovation, it became the new home of The Vault and, with the ongoing support of Wellingtonians, a Wellington icon.
WELLINGTON VAULT 2008 – After twelve amazing years at 50 Willis Street, redevelopment meant The Vault had to relocate again. Luckily, another beautiful space was found nearby, and in 2008 The Vault reopened at 2 Plimmer Steps, where you’ll still find us today.
CHRISTCHURCH EARTHQUAKE 2011 – Thankfully, staff and customers safely made it out of the Christchurch store following the February 2011 earthquake. The building was later demolished and, after much deliberation, Sarah and Philip decided not to reopen the Christchurch store.
AUCKLAND VAULT – During the COVID-19 pandemic and challenging economic conditions, The Vault sadly said goodbye to its Auckland store.