Tucked into a charming historic building on Waipu Cove Road, Patsy Montgomery Design offers visitors a delightful blend of original art, unique designs, and sustainable fashion. This welcoming art studio and shop is housed in a “wee hoose” with an extraordinary history, a building that began its life in Mangawhai as a general store and gum trading post in the early 1900s before being transported by bullock train to its current Waipu location.
Long-time Waipu resident and artist Patsy Montgomery has transformed this heritage space into both her creative studio and a destination for art lovers. Her work captures the natural beauty of Northland, with prints featuring iconic local scenes like tui flying above the Waipu river mouth with Hen Island on the horizon. These evocative pieces celebrate the stunning coastal landscapes that make this region so special, from the wildlife refuge teeming with dotterels and oystercatchers to the dramatic views between Waipu and Waipu Cove.
Beyond her artwork, Patsy has also been a vibrant contributor to Waipu’s cultural life. As manager of the Waipu Museum, she helped organise the renowned Art ‘n’ Tartan wearable art awards, celebrating the town’s Scottish heritage through creative fashion. Her theatrical background includes memorable performances with the Otamatea Repertory Theatre, showcasing her diverse artistic talents and deep community connections.
The studio also features Swanky Pants, offering carefully curated preloved clothing for those who appreciate sustainable fashion and one-of-a-kind finds. This combination of original art, thoughtful design, and quality secondhand garments reflects a philosophy of mindful consumption and supporting local creativity.
Whether you’re seeking an authentic piece of Northland art to take home, hunting for vintage fashion treasures, or simply wanting to meet a talented local artist in her creative space, Patsy Montgomery Design provides a genuine and personal shopping experience. The historic building itself adds to the charm, making every visit feel like stepping into a piece of Waipu’s rich story while discovering contemporary creative expression.
