The Museum is closed until Saturday 28 March when two new installations will open.
Full details will be provided here in readiness for our re-opening.
Nau mai, haere mai. We are open 10:00am - 4:00pm Monday to Friday, and 11:00am - 3:00pm Weekends and Public Holidays, and we would love to share our high quality and engaging exhibitions with you.
Entry is free, with donations welcomed.
Travel through Time
A permanent exhibition.
A new updated timeline exhibition.
September 2025 marks the 150th Anniversary of the Northern Irish Settlers arriving in Katikati. The new timeline will be permanent and positioned opposite the existing timeline. This reflects the progress, development and changes to today, highlighting the desire to make things happen and a diverse multi-cultural population. Katikati is an example of true community spirit.
We acknowledge Katikati Focus Trust for their support of this exhibition.
Te Au o Maui – Waka Tapu: Ceremonial Canoe Exhibition
A permanent exhibition.
Featuring a replica Waka Tapu – Ceremonial Canoe.
The Waka Taua is a powerful symbol of mana (prestige), Kotahitanga (unity), and cultural identity in Te Ao Māori. This five-metre model represents a Waka Pitau Whakarei, a traditional ceremonial war canoe.
Although smaller than historical Waka Taua, it carries the same legacy of navigation, craftmanship, and cultural resilience. It also honours Sir Hekenukumai Hector Busby, whose knowledge was passed down to waka builder Haimona Brown, who alongside Tohunga Whakairo (master carver) Hingangaroa Smith, built Te Au o Maui to uphold and continue the legacy entrusted by Hector.
It is powerful and sits perfectly with our Waka Migration exhibition.
We acknowledge Taylor Bros Transport for their support of this exhibition.
