Friends of the Museum Talks
We are delighted to bring you ten monthly talks per annum on the second Thursday of each month. These are held in the Arts Junction theatre and are free for Friends of the Museum, with a koha to be paid for non-members. To help us grow our Friends circle, your are welcome to bring a non-member friend (a koha is appreciated).
Keep an eye out for our 2026 Friends of the Museum Talks on our social media pages.
Previous Friends of the Museum Talks...
November 13, 2025
The last talk of the year was a reflection of the highlights and milestones from 2024 throughout 2025 - exhibitions, community events and the growing reach of our Mahi. A celebration for all.
September 11, 2025
September 2025 marks 150 years since the Northern Irish settlers arrived in Katikati. This updated timeline presents 50 highlights of people, places and events, reflecting progress, diversity, and strong community spirits. Join us as we reflect on this milestone.
August 14, 2025
Friends of the Museum: Whetū Mārama Screening & Talk
Join us for a special evening in connection with our current Waka Tapu exhibition — a powerful screening of Whetū Mārama – Bright Star, the story of Sir Hekenukumai Busby and the revival of traditional Māori voyaging.
Followed by a Q&A with master waka builder and carver Haimona Brown.
June 12, 2025
Confiscation in Disguise - the Katikati Te Puna Purchase.
Presented by Chris Bedford, a former Presbyterian minister with an academic background in history and political studies.
May 8, 2025
With Brigid Gallagher. Brigid is highly qualified in Archaeology and Anthropology, and has a Bachelor's degree in Earth Science as well as a Cardiff degree in Conservation and Museums. We admire Brigid's work with Time Team UK and Heritage Rescue Aotearoa.
Conversations: The importance of local Archaeology, Why modern-day museums are the foundation stones of communities and the importance of telling our shared histories honestly.
April 10, 2025
Talk by Geoff Willacy who is an important member of our museum community. Geoff will go through the history of the post office and let us in on some industry secrets!
Hosted by Western Bay Museum and Creative Bay of Plenty.
March 13, 2025
Talk by Anne from CBOP, who will talk us through the importance of the arts in our communities and a bit about what she and her team offer.
Hosted by Western Bay Museum and Creative Bay of Plenty.
February 13, 2025
Talks by Francis Young and Katipo Creative about historic photographs in the area and how to preserve your own.
Hosted by Western Bay Museum and Katipo Creative.
Katikati 1025-2025: Uncovering Layers of History
Join us for the next Friends of the Museum talk! With our speaker Francis Young
2025 marks 150 years since the Ulster Irish settlers arrived in 1875 to establish the hamlet of Waterford, which laid the foundation for modern Katikati. Francis will share insights on a project to update the town’s history since 1940, exploring its transformation from a quiet settlement to the vibrant multicultural community we know today.
But the story doesn’t start there! The name Katikati goes back to the arrival of the Arawa canoe, and earlier Polynesian settlements add even more depth to our local history.
Get ready to uncover fascinating stories and interesting facts as our history team digs into the archives. Don’t miss it.
About Francis Young
Born and raised in the Manawatu, Francis Young retired to a lifestyle block on Matahui Road in 2000 after a 30-year tenure at the University of Illinois in USA. Although his professional career was in science and technology he has always had an interest in history. He has been involved with the Museum since the early days of public ownership and has researched many stories for the exhibitions. He is currently Chair of the Western Bay Heritage Trust as well as being a volunteer in the museum.
Heritage in Our Hands: The Role of Archives in Shaping Tomorrow
We’re excited to welcome Sandra Haigh as our next guest speaker.
With a Master’s in Library Studies and over 25 years of experience, Sandra has been the Community Heritage Services Co-ordinator for the Western Bay of Plenty District Council since 2018. She has a deep love for her home in Katikati, where she’s lived for 11 years.
In her talk, Sandra will delve into the vital role of archives in safeguarding our local history, using a specific collection to illustrate the importance of keeping our kōrero safe for future generations. She’ll also share how her journey led her to this meaningful work. Within her story, Sandra will discuss the principles that underpin archives work, connecting them to the community she serves.
This narrative is closely tied to our local community. Please join us to learn from Sandra’s wealth of experience and gain a deeper appreciation for the stories that shape our community!
