Incoming Director (QAGOMA), Chris Saines, CNZM was welcomed to the Gallery this morning by staff, Trustees and Arts Minister Ian Walker MP.

Following a Welcome to Country from traditional elder Uncle Des Sandy and a performance by the Burragubba Dancers, Chris was farewelled by a contingent from the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki’s board of Maori advisors, Haerewa.

Representatives Elizabeth Ellis, Mere Waihuka Lodge & Jonathan Mane-Wheoki travelled to Brisbane in honour of their longstanding friendship with Chris in his previous role of Director of the Auckland gallery, and warmly commended him to people of Queensland.