Motueka District Museum

Tourism & AdventureMotueka4.7(60 reviews)
Motueka District Museum photo 1Motueka District Museum photo 2Motueka District Museum photo 3

About

Motueka District Museum operates from a heritage-listed 1913 building on High Street, originally a school before its 1970 gift to the Motueka Borough Council. The museum opened to the public in November 1987 and holds Category II historic status. It presents rotating exhibitions on the Motueka District's history, and entry is free.

Reviews

Very well presented local history. Enjoyed. Also very good documentation of local family genealogy.

Stephen B. · May 2026 · via Google

This is Delicious Cafe NOT Mot District Museum. The food is lovely. Photos are of their Fairlie Pies.

Lynley D. · November 2025 · via Google

The Motueka District Museum is not only a repository of local history but also an active community venue, hosting exhibitions, educational programs, and cultural events. Its location in the former school building serves as a reminder of the town’s layered past, where education, community spirit, and historical preservation intersect.

Kamal W. · June 2025 · via Google

We had a wonderful visit to the Motueka District Museum! From the moment we walked in, we were greeted with a friendly welcome from Peter. The museum offers an engaging look into the history and culture of the area. We particularly enjoyed learning about Matariki through the local kura and hearing about their whānau and their aspirations. The exhibits on the early settlers and the history of baking and apples in Motueka were fascinating. It was also a unique experience to see historians hard at work on the side of the museum. All in all, a nice way to spend half an hour or so. Highly recommended for anyone visiting the area!

Royce · July 2024 · via Google

Local museum that I has a Local Canera club at the moment.ent An extinct pair of Huia are shown . Sad to see but interesting. Local records of tobacco growing and early settlements of Maori and later settlers. Nice building that was formally the District High School. Muses cafe along side. Donation only. Support.

Josephine T. · March 2024 · via Google

Services

  • History museum exhibitions
  • Rotating exhibitions and events
  • Colossal Squid Ngū Tipua exhibition (Te Papa, 29 Apr–26 Jul 2026)
  • Free admission
  • Heritage building (1913, Category II listed)
  • Wheelchair accessible entrance and parking
  • Family and school group visits welcomed
  • Collection object gallery displays