During the first week after our arrival, the Auckland Art gallery reopened in grand style. Ex Qld Art Gallery curator Chris Saines is the much revered Director here, who saw the Gallery through its spectacular renovation and extension. Its  a great job well done. A 30 million dollar gift of art including Matisse, Picasso, Mondrian and more has added impact to the permanent collection. The Maori presence at the opening and during the refocus was strong. Young Maoris from a local Marae greeted the crowd.