Traders & Whalers – Tawhiti Museum 14th Aug

The weather was really rather stormy so it was nice to head indoors and see the exciting new exhibition at Tawhiti. A study of the Taranaki Coast from 1820 – 1840’s


A can do attitude between the South Taranaki District Council and Nigel Olge’s Tawhiti Museum has achieved a must see exhibit. Unfortunately we were unable to take photos inside but if you Google ‘Tawhiti Museum -Traders & Whalers’ you will see some of the marvellous model’s we saw on our boat ride.

Outside the entrance you wonder just how a cruise could happen, Len and I were a bit late, so headed inside the cave wondering where everyone else was. (If I had looked at my cell phone I would have known, but I digress) Our eyes slowly adjusted to the low light and we spied some of the mining exhibits, then a ghostly surprise. Out of the gloom we came across a couple of official looking gentlemen. Handing over our tickets we quietly entered the boat. It descended into the water. As we quietly headed off our guide answered our questions, probably not the ones he expected but hey how did the boat move so quietly and without a gondola in sight, did we have to pick up a paddle (no we were tourists today) how deep was the water really, who made that etc. etc. Apparently the Weta Workshop helped with the casting of the walls; rocks etc. and the models came to life as we putted along. ( a little electric motor made all the difference)

Gun fire was heard and pigs and animals squealed. The early wars with musket s and cannons were portrayed with life size figures (just as you would expect from Tawhiti). Our Journey ended too soon and it was all out and up the stairs to more interesting history. One that intrigued me was the model of Motoura Island set up as Dicky Barrett’s home at the time. Interesting reading and next time we cruise round the island I will have a new perspective of how things used to be.

Coming out we found Hilary, Newton who had also been around. Nola was leaving her tour for after lunch, which we enjoyed at the Museum’s Café.

A great break from the normal spring fever down on the farm.

Sharon