It has to be high praise when Prime Minister John Key uses Tairawhiti Polytechnic's Maori Visual Arts programme Toihoukura as an example of what the nation could aspire to.

At a visit to the highly-celebrated arts programme in Gisborne today (Wednesday), Mr Key said the "world class" work before him showed how vibrant the Maori culture is.

"This is recognition of how New Zealand as a country is evolving and what it can become," he said.

He congratulated the polytechnic leaders on having the vision to help so many young people express themselves through art, and have fun in life.

"I am very envious," said Mr Key, while admitting he wished he had a little artistic talent to call on.

His visit was a highlight for many. Around 100 tutors, artists, students, board members and others were at the gallery to catch a glimpse of the country's leader. Some just wanted to shake his hand, while others wanted autographs and even gave him toanga.

Toihoukura weaving students worked away while the formalities continued before Mr Key had the chance to wander through the galleries, chatting to flax, paint, ta moko and wood artists.

He commented on t-shirts his son wore, chatted to students and relayed things his daughter had told him about the importance of art.

"She says that without art we are merely chimpanzees with car keys."

Principal tutor Derek Lardelli suggested he send her to Toihoukura.

Mr Key was presented with an acrylic on canvas piece by Bernise Williams, entitled Kauwae Runga which she said had been inspired by talks from Lardelli.

It was a mutual admiration 'agreement' between the two though, as Lardelli later described her as Toihoukura's best painter who was also very talented at ta moko.

Mr Key was chuffed, saying his painting was "an absolutely superb gift".

Maori Party co-leader and Maori Affairs Minister Pita Sharples received a stunning piece from Albie Raureti called Tama Nui Te Ra.

Raureti admitted he'd certainly "felt the pressure" in being the one to do the painting for Mr Sharples, but said it was a "total buzz".

Polytechnic chief executive Judy Campbell said Toihoukura was the pinnacle of what the organisation offered in Maori art education, but there were other courses and programmes that were "just as great", including the trades, nurses and viticulture.

The visit to the polytechnic was just one part in a power-packed two days in Gisborne.