$1 Million Transformation: Western Bay Museum Closes Its Doors for Its Biggest Chapter Yet
After ten years of extraordinary growth, determination, and community partnership, Western Bay Museum is embarking on the most ambitious chapter in its history. On Sunday, 30 August, the Museum will temporarily close its doors for six months to undergo a comprehensive $1 million redevelopment and refurbishment.
This major initiative represents far more than a physical renovation – it is a bold investment in the future of the region, the community, and the diverse heritage stories shared within its walls.
Ten Years of Growth and Community Partnership
From modest beginnings powered by a single paid staff member, Western Bay Museum has evolved into a vibrant cultural hub supported by three paid staff, five contractors, and a dedicated team of volunteers.
Throughout this decade-long journey, the Museum has continually evolved to remain dynamic, welcoming, and meaningful to the communities it serves. Deep collaboration with Mana Whenua, Hapū, Iwi, schools, cultural groups, and museum sector partners has guided every stage of its strategic growth.
Key partners who have helped shape this visionary step include:
● Te Papa National Services Te Paerangi
● Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tamawhariua
● Katch Katikati & Katikati College
● Creative Bay of Plenty & Tourism Bay of Plenty
● Western Bay of Plenty District Council & Bay of Plenty Regional Council
Centring Culture, Connection, and Community
At the heart of the redevelopment is a commitment to authentic cultural representation. Ongoing mahi alongside Ngāi Tamawhariua, Te Whānau ā Tauwhao, and Ngāti Te Wai is shaping how cultural narratives, taonga Māori, tikanga, Treaty education, and wānanga are embedded into the visitor experience. Their guidance ensures these vital histories are honoured and shared accurately with generations to come.
Record attendance at recent Waitangi Day and Matariki events validates the community's appetite for meaningful spaces to gather, reflect, and celebrate shared heritage.
$1 Million Project Fully Funded Without Ratepayer Contribution
Through strong financial stewardship and generous support, Western Bay Museum has secured 85% of its complete funding target for the project.
Grants and donations have been generously provided by TECT, Department of Internal Affairs (Lotteries), Bay of Plenty Regional Council, private donors, and commercial sponsors. Notably, the entire redevelopment is being achieved with zero contribution from local ratepayers.
"This milestone belongs to our whole community," says the Western Bay Museum team. "It reflects ten years of trust, partnership, and shared ambition."
Behind the Scenes: Join the Six-Month Journey
While the physical exhibition space will be closed from 30 August, Western Bay Museum will remain active throughout the six-month construction phase.
Behind-the-scenes updates, stories, and progress reveals will be shared regularly across media channels, social media platforms, and the official website. Community members will have behind-the-scenes access to the creative process and the people bringing the new vision to life.
Western Bay Museum is changing. Our stories are growing. And the best is yet to come.
