Whanganui Regional Museum
Manawatu-Wanganui
The Whanganui Regional Museum in New Zealand houses an extensive collection of natural and human history artifacts, focusing primarily on the Manawatū-Whanganui region. Established in 1895, it features significant national and international objects such as Pacific tapa cloth, Asian and Cypriot ceramics, and an internationally important collection of moa bones. The museum's moa collection is notable for its completeness, allowing detailed scientific study of these extinct birds. The Māori taonga collection includes items donated in memory of John Barnicoat Wall, reflecting the region's indigenous heritage. The museum underwent major expansions and refurbishments, including a significant earthquake strengthening project completed in 2019. It serves as both a cultural repository and an educational institution, preserving the rich heritage of the Whanganui area and beyond.
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Astuce: Visit the museum during weekdays to avoid crowds and take advantage of guided tours when available. Advance booking is recommended for group visits or special exhibitions. The museum offers discounts for seniors, students, and local residents. Check the official website for updated opening hours and temporary exhibition schedules.
Faits intéressants
- •The museum holds one of the largest and most intact moa bone collections worldwide, enabling unique scientific research.
- •A complete and intact moa egg found in 1931 is part of the collection and is among the few known worldwide.
- •The McLachlan coin collection once displayed included the largest collection of British coins in the Southern Hemisphere.
- •In 1932, two escaped prisoners hid in the museum posing as visitors, but were discovered due to their suspicious behavior.
- •The William James Harding photographic collection documents Whanganui society from the 1850s to 1880s and is listed on the UNESCO Memory of the World register.
Histoire
The museum was founded in 1895, initiated by local naturalist Samuel Henry Drew, whose private collection formed its initial holdings.
In 1928, the museum moved to a new building designed by Robert Talboys and was renamed the Alexander Museum after benefactor Henry Alexander.
The 1968 rear extension added facilities including a Māori Court and lecture theatre.
In 2016, the museum closed for earthquake strengthening and refurbishment, reopening in 2019 with modernized exhibits and improved facilities.
Guide du lieu
Moa Collection
An internationally significant assembly of moa bones found locally, including fully assembled skeletons and a rare intact moa egg, illustrating the prehistoric fauna of New Zealand.
Māori Taonga Gallery1933
A dedicated space showcasing Māori artifacts donated by Dr. and Mrs. Wall, honoring their son John Barnicoat Wall and representing the indigenous cultural heritage of the region.
Alexander Museum Building1928
The 1928 building designed by Robert Talboys, originally named after benefactor Henry Alexander, housing the museum's expanded collections and exhibitions.
Contact
Téléphone: 06 349 1110