Whilst the lack of overseas travel, low interest rates and those exploring alternative investments (particularly in the upper demographic) are all big drivers of this boom, the question remains, will this be an ongoing trend, or is it merely a coronavirus isolation fad? The Covid home improvement frenzy Gallery owners that I have spoken to in the Parnell precinct have said it’s far too early to say whether this trend will continue through 2021. But, they were all unanimous in their view that January sales were unusually high, despite reduced hours and people taking extended summer holidays. Many are feeling bullish about the year ahead, with galleries reporting strong sales in the recent Auckland Art Fair, even though it had to close one day early due to alert level changes.