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OUR MUSEUM'S HISTORY
Built in 1913, our museum’s charming brick building has stood as a pillar of the community for over a century. It replaced an earlier wooden structure from 1866 and originally served as a school where both high school and primary students shared classrooms under one roof.
In its early years, the school building was a vibrant hub of activity, hosting not only classes but also community dances, boxing matches, and flower shows. In 1922, a war memorial was constructed on the grounds, solidifying the site’s significance. This memorial attracted notable dignitaries, including Lord Bledisloe and Governor-General Sir Charles Fergusson. Later, the memorial found a new home on Pah Street in 1955-56.
By 1943, the building underwent a transformation: classroom partitions were removed to create an assembly hall. However, rising enrollment in the 1950s led to its reconfiguration back into classrooms.
As time passed, the building began to deteriorate. Without central heating, security, or even toilet facilities, it faced mounting challenges. Overgrown ivy caused structural damage, leaks became common, and vandalism took its toll. Declared an earthquake risk, the school was closed in 1969.
In 1970, the building was gifted to the Motueka Borough Council by the Education Department, with one condition: it must be preserved as a museum.
The building earned recognition as a Category II historic site on the New Zealand Heritage Trust’s Register in 1982. The following year, a dedicated steering committee was formed to spearhead fundraising and long-overdue restoration efforts.
Finally, in November 1987, the museum opened its doors to the public, breathing new life into this historic treasure as the home of our community's shared history.
Photo credit: Kim Falconer