Things To Do

Kahukura Hawke's Bay Museum

1 Tennyson Street, Bluff Hill, Napier 4110

Rating: 4.5 ★ (808 ratings)

Details

Kahukura Hawke's Bay Museum is a distinguished cultural institution located in the heart of Napier's renowned Art Deco precinct, beautifully situated on the corner of Marine Parade and Tennyson Street. This award-winning museum, gallery, and theatre complex stands as a true landmark, representing a harmonious blend of 1930s Art Deco architecture, modernist design, and contemporary elements. It serves as the vibrant cultural heart of Hawke's Bay, welcoming visitors to explore its extensive collections and engaging atmosphere, with free entry to its galleries.

Within its impressive walls, the museum presents a rich array of exhibitions, including the compelling Taonga Māori Gallery and displays detailing the region's remarkable recovery from the 1931 earthquake, such as "Shockwave: Hawke's Bay's Great Quake". The Century Theatre, an integral part of the complex, hosts a dynamic programme of film, live theatre, and musical performances, providing varied cultural experiences. Guests can also delve into the vast collection of approximately 90,000 items, encompassing fine arts, historical artefacts, and natural history specimens, though the primary collections facility is located in Hastings.

This museum is ideal for families seeking an enriching day out, with plenty to discover across its diverse spaces. It particularly appeals to art enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone keen to gain a deeper understanding of New Zealand's stories through a regional lens. Cruise ship visitors are warmly welcomed, and guided tours can be arranged, ensuring a memorable and insightful visit for all interests.

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Location

Opening Hours

Monday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM | Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM | Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM | Thursday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM | Friday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM | Saturday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM | Sunday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Contact

+64 6 835 7781 | https://www.hawkesbaymuseum.com/

Comments

Yan “Melody Yan” Melody
26 Jul 2026
5.0 ★
I passed by coincidentally and it was such a highlight of my New Zealand trip. Within an hour before closure, I learned so much from the tragedy of earthquake happened, explaining also why i only saw low building around. When you have some time in the town, please come here for visit!
Janita Patrick
30 Jun 2026
5.0 ★
Love, love, love this space!
I’ve been here twice and it is cool! There’s a great shop here but the history contained is epic & the displays are next level!
JUNHO LEE
18 Jun 2026
5.0 ★
U can learn about Napier itself and see lot of artistic one. Its really interested to see about Hawkes Bays terrains fairytail and also earthquake. Truly educational and spend good time about learning & understanding Hawkes bay region
Monica
14 Apr 2026
5.0 ★
Located at the heart of Napier CBD,It was an educational theatre/gallery to understand the history of NZ. Family friendly place to explore.
Gem Gem
5 Apr 2026
4.0 ★
Friendly welcome and run down on the museum before we entered, our kids were fascinated by the exhibit on the big napier earthqauke. It was interactive and engaging we had a wonderful time. The other exhibits didn't really take our interest sadly but it was a great 45 minutes exploring the earthquake room. It is free to explore which is a huge bonus!

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