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The Auckland arts scene is busy, particularly in the area of visual arts, with some 60 dealer galleries operating. Theater is on the rise and more touring exhibitions and performing companies are coming through the city than ever before. The Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra performs regularly, including at the summer series of free concerts in the park at the Domain, when thousands of music lovers sit with picnics under the stars. The Vector Arena by the harbor attracts plenty of rock acts, too.
Auckland's main venue for the performing arts and medium-size conferences is in the center of the city and often mounts free art exhibitions in its public spaces. There is a good café on the steps leading into the main foyer. The New Zealand Opera performs three annual main-stage seasons here, accompanied by either the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra or the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra.
