The museum is open to the public at Level 2, read the latest museum covid-19 response information here
Tairāwhiti Museum is a 5-minute walk from the CBD, across Peel Street Bridge and through Kelvin Park. There is free parking on Stout Street.
The Museum and Exhibit Cafe are open to the public at Covid-19 alert level 2. We have a range of measures in place to enable us to open safely. For more information please visit our Covid-19 response page.
Opening Hours
- Monday – Saturday 10am – 4pm
- Sunday and Public Holidays 1:30pm – 4:00pm
- Closed – Easter Friday, Christmas Day and Boxing Day
Admission
- Adults $5 (12 years and under and Friends of the Museum free entry)
- Free entry every day for local residents!
Exhibit Cafe
- Monday – Friday 9.30am to 1.00pm, closed weekends (winter reduced hours)
What’s Happening at the Museum
Exhibitions
Te Hono Wai – Where waters meet – Jo Torr
Opening: 11/09/20 5:30 pm
Five of the artworks highlight the experiences of Tuai and Tītere, two young Māori chiefs who travelled to England in 1818. These works draw attention to the way Māori travelled the world prior to the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi seeking new knowledge, useful goods and technologies, while simultaneously sharing their own knowledge to... Read more »
Artists, Potters and Photographers
Opening: 28/08/20 5:30 pm
This year has been an unprecedented one. The worldwide pandemic and lock-down has for many artists put an end to that perpetual complaint, “I never have time!” and our annual exhibition will be a fabulous opportunity to view how Gisborne creatives have channelled this experience. A variety of mediums will be on show so something... Read more »
Landscapes – Pru Davis
Opening: 07/08/20 5:30 pm
East coast artist Pru Davis was born to paint and has the ability to turn her hand to any medium she fancies. An Ilam Fine Arts graduate, her artistic sensibilities nurtured and encouraged from the cradle to the healthy obsession of today. As a descendent of prominent 19th century artist Kennett Watkins, Davis’ family ancestry... Read more »
Tū te Whaihanga
Opening: 07/10/19 10:00 am
Tū te Whaihanga is a resurgence of the creative genius of the past, and carries the cultural aspirations of tangata whenua into the future. Sacred taonga that left the shores of Te Tairāwhiti 250 years ago will return home to be celebrated in the upcoming exhibition, Tū te Whaihanga. The homecoming will see these taonga stand... Read more »
Posing, Not Posing
Opening: 26/11/18 10:00 am
Long before smartphones, selfie sticks and one-swipe filters, having your ‘perfect’ picture taken took practice, preparation and plenty of posing. Early cameras and photographic materials required the sitter to be still for many seconds. While this is often given as the reason for a lack of smiles, a more likely reason is that early portrait... Read more »
Events
Ngā Kura Huna: Recovering Cultural Heritage, a mini seminar series with Dr Patricia Te Arapo Wallace
Attendance is free, but booking is essential. Numbers will be limited, depending on Covid-19 alert level at the time. Book at the museum or via info@tairawhitimuseum.org.nz, or 06 8673832. When you book please indicate which sessions you would like to attend.
Ngā Kura Huna: Recovering Cultural Heritage, a mini seminar series with Dr Patricia Te Arapo Wallace
Attendance is free, but booking is essential. Numbers will be limited, depending on Covid-19 alert level at the time. Book at the museum or via info@tairawhitimuseum.org.nz, or 06 8673832. When you book please indicate which sessions you would like to attend.
