Citation
(1998), "Opening of the Museum of New Zealand", Asian Libraries, Vol. 7 No. 4. https://doi.org/10.1108/al.1998.17307dab.004
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 1998, MCB UP Limited
Opening of the Museum of New Zealand
Opening of the Museum of New Zealand
One of New Zealand's largest public sector projects of recent years was finally opened on 14 February 1998 Te Papa Tongarewa, or the Museum of New Zealand. This is situated on the waterfront in Wellington harbour, where it dominates the city skyline. More than 70,000 people came for the official opening, performed by America's Cup star, Sir Peter Blake, and two young children.
"Te Papa" is a Maori phrase which can be translated as "our place", and the emphasis in the Museum is on the variety of New Zealand cultures, with the obvious intention of developing a national identity. The Museum will feature standing exhibits (mostly free of charge for visitors) such as the presentation of the Treaty of Waitangi. There will be short-term exhibitions of artwork and artefacts. Special events will be included, especially during the forthcoming Wellington Arts Festival. Some of the most popular attractions in the Museum will be the clever "virtual reality" rides, such as the Time Warp, although these rides carry an entrance charge.
The cost of the Museum is estimated to be NZ$317 million. It is expected that thousands of visitors will be attracted to visit the new facility in a city otherwise short of tourist attractions.