Your chance to help preserve our past to inspire our future generations

Our District has a rich heritage which, thanks to the generosity of our forebears, has been preserved in the priceless collection of artefacts, photographs, books and artworks held by the Whakatāne Museum and Research Centre.

Te Kōputu a te whanga a Toi – the Whakatāne Library and Exhibition Centre – is the display case for the Museum, but the treasures you see there are just a tiny fraction of the whole collection. The current Museum facility in Boon Street is limited by a lack of space and a lack of public facilities. But its biggest flaw is that it has virtually no climate control capabilities, which are vital if we are to protect and preserve our collection for future generations to enjoy, learn from and be inspired by.

The Whakatāne District Council is seeking funding support from the Ministry of Culture and Heritage for a major redevelopment of the Museum building. The Council has set aside $1.5 million for the redevelopment in its Long Term Plan, and other key stakeholders have confirmed contributions towards this $4.5 million project. We are now inviting the community to help us create a lasting legacy for tomorrow’s enquiring minds, and a facility which will honour the deeds and treasures of those who have made their home in our blessed part of Aotearoa for centuries past.

Nāku noa nā.

Tony Bonne
Mayor, Whakatāne District