Wanganui has become one of New Zealand's main centres for studio glass art, with several working glassblowers based in the city attracted by affordable studio space and a supportive arts community. The Whanganui Glass Art Trail links a handful of studios and galleries where you can watch glassblowing in action and buy work directly from the maker.
The Sarjeant Gallery has works by local glass artists in its collection; commercial galleries in the city centre also stock glass pieces. This is one of the better places in New Zealand to buy quality studio glass at prices lower than you would pay in Auckland or Wellington.