Puke Ariki
Taranaki
Puke Ariki, located in New Plymouth, New Zealand, is an innovative cultural complex that merges a museum and public library, opened in June 2003. Its name means "hill of chiefs" in Māori, reflecting the site's historical significance as a former Māori pā of the Te Āti Awa iwi dating back to around 1700. The site was once home to the paramount chief Te Rangi-apiti-rua and held a marae named Para-huka. Over time, colonial settlers renamed the hill Mount Eliot and utilized it for government buildings, military barracks during the First Taranaki War, and a signalling station. The original hill was largely removed by 1905 for land reclamation and railway development. The combined institution represents a fusion of the New Plymouth Public Library, established in 1848, and the Taranaki Museum, founded in 1919. The museum houses significant collections related to Māori culture, regional history, and natural heritage, including artifacts from the Skinner family collection that shaped the museum's early development. The modern Puke Ariki building integrates interactive exhibits, library services, and community spaces, making it a vital center for education and cultural preservation in the Taranaki region.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to check Puke Ariki's official website for current opening hours and special exhibitions. The best time to visit is during weekdays to avoid crowds, and booking tickets or library memberships in advance can enhance the experience. Discounts may be available for seniors, students, and groups. The facility is accessible and offers guided tours that provide deeper insights into the exhibits and Māori heritage.
Zajímavosti
- •Puke Ariki means "hill of chiefs" in Māori, referencing its historical significance as a tribal pā.
- •The site was home to Te Rangi-apiti-rua, a paramount chief of the Te Āti Awa iwi.
- •The original hill was mostly removed by 1905 to make way for railway yards and land reclamation.
- •The Taranaki Museum's early collection was significantly enhanced by the Skinner family, who donated Māori artifacts and historical documents.
- •The modern Puke Ariki building opened in 2003, combining museum and library services under one roof.
Historie
The site of Puke Ariki was originally a Māori pā of the Te Āti Awa tribe established around 1700, serving as a significant tribal center.
After the pā was abandoned circa 1830, colonial settlers renamed the hill Mount Eliot and used it for government and military purposes, including during the First Taranaki War.
The New Plymouth Public Library was founded in 1848 and evolved through various locations and challenges, including a destructive fire in 1859.
The Taranaki Museum was established in 1919, largely due to the Skinner family's donation of Māori artifacts.
In 1960, a combined library, museum, and war memorial building was opened.
Eventually, in 2003, the modern Puke Ariki complex was inaugurated, uniting the museum and library into a single cultural institution.
Průvodce po místě
Māori Pā Sitecirca 1700
The original hill of Puke Ariki was a significant Māori pā with a marae called Para-huka, home to the chief Te Rangi-apiti-rua. While the hill itself is no longer intact, the museum's exhibits preserve the history and culture of this site.
Skinner Collection1919
A foundational collection of Māori artifacts and historical documents donated by William Skinner and his son Prof. H. D. Skinner, which significantly shaped the museum's holdings and focus on Taranaki heritage.
Carnegie Free Library Building1908
Opened in 1908, funded by philanthropist Andrew Carnegie, this building served as New Plymouth's public library and marked a significant development in public access to knowledge.
1960 Combined Library, Museum and War Memorial Building1960
A four-story building opened in 1960 housing the Taranaki Museum, public library, and War Memorial Hall, designed by Taylor and Collins, reflecting mid-20th century civic architecture.
Kontakt
Telefon: 06 759 6060
