Katikati's Western Bay Museum brings to life the pioneering spirit of tangata whenua and settlers who built the Western Bay by telling their stories through fascinating collections, interactive experiences and beautifully curated exhibitions.
Katikati's Western Bay Museum brings to life the pioneering spirit of tangata whenua and settlers who built the Western Bay by telling their stories through fascinating collections, interactive experiences and beautifully curated exhibitions.
The museum is housed inside the instantly recognisable historic landmark - the old Fire Station in Katikati. The fire station brings together the past and the present in a way that celebrates the modern, forward-thinking nature of the Western Bay Museum as it is today.
A unique small regional museum, the interior is modern, bright and open and exhibitions are updated three times per year. The displays are current, uncluttered and simple, bringing high quality exhibitions to life in a creative and engaging way.
The specialist rooms feature captivating collections of technology, natural objects and hands-on features that are loved by kids and adults alike.
Whether you are passing through on a day trip, need a rainy day activity or staying a while, you will love the ‘hidden gem’ that is Western Bay Museum.
Discover the many museum experiences
- ‘Step Back in Time – Exhibition Tour and Experience’
Includes a Museum Tour, scones from the wood range and tea served in bone china – min. 8 guests and bookings essential
- ‘1900s School Experience’
An engaging and interactive school experience which is one of the most memorable trips children take part in through their school year. Bookings essential.
- Guided Tours
Make your museum experience come alive with a Guided Tour. Tour includes the fascinating stories of the local Māori, Ulster Irish and other settlers who together built this area along with a tour of the latest exhibition. (Approx 20 minutes).
Tours available: Mondays 11am, Wednesdays 2pm, Thursday 11am and Saturdays 12 noon.
No booking required – just turn up!
Admission
Free entry for Western Bay Ratepayers and Residents
Adults: $5
Gold Card: $4
Children (under 16): Free entry
Please enquire about prices for our Museum Experiences.