Visit MTG Hawke’s Bay to learn about the cultural heart of Napier and hear the stories of New Zealand. From an exhibit on the 1931 Hawke’s Bay earthquake to the art and objects that define generations of New Zealanders, the museum hosts a precious collection that defines this region full of fascinating characters.
Explore three levels of exhibits at MTG Hawke’s Bay, formerly known as Hawke’s Bay Museum & Art Gallery. The Taonga Māori Gallery offers a virtual pōwhiri ceremonial welcome. The collection in this section has more than 6,000 taonga tuku iho, heirlooms that have been handed down through countless generations along with their stories about the Māori settlement of Hawke’s Bay. Look for ancestral carvings, jewelry, clothing, textiles, cloaks, handwoven kete baskets and more throughout this impressive collection.
On the basement level, learn about the massive earthquake of 1931 and the ensuing recovery efforts that reshaped and revived Hawke’s Bay. A short film shares the story of earthquake survivors. Upstairs, wander through four galleries showcasing art, culture and social history. Gaze out the huge picture windows over the Pacific Ocean, catching a glimpse of the bronze statue of Pania of the Reef and the art deco Sound Shell on the waterfront.
Visitors of all ages find interesting happenings at the museum daily, from curator talks to interactive children’s activities to behind-the-scenes tours. Visit the museum website or ask one of the staff members for the latest event and exhibition information.
Stop at the Linkway Gallery for its rotating exhibits and access to the Century Theatre, where you’ll find a lineup of film, theatrical and musical performances each week. At the end of your stay, stop at the museum shop for its extensive collection of New Zealand gifts, souvenirs, books, art and jewelry.
Find MTG Hawke’s Bay on Tennyson Street in Napier. Admission is free. The museum is open daily except Christmas Day. Park for free for 2 hours on the seaward side of Marine Parade. Parking is available for a fee on other nearby streets.
