PHOTO: Tauranga. FILE
Tauranga’s Long-Awaited Museum Finally Moves Forward: A Vision 25 Years in the Making
After decades of anticipation and extensive deliberations, Tauranga will finally see the construction of a museum as part of a transformative civic project. The $128.4 million museum, civic whare, and exhibition gallery are integral components of the $306 million civic precinct, Te Manawataki o Te Papa. This landmark development signals a new era for the city, promising to enrich cultural understanding, revitalize the central business district (CBD), and showcase Tauranga’s rich history.
A Decision Years in the Making
The project received formal approval on Monday in a 7-2 vote by Tauranga City Council. After about five hours of discussions, the newly elected council debated three possible pathways: proceeding with the civic whare, museum, and exhibition centre; halting construction and remediating the site; or pausing the project to redesign it.
Ultimately, the council opted to continue the project, aligning with the earlier approval granted by the government-appointed commission in 2022. Mayor Mahé Drysdale emphasized the significance of moving forward with the existing plans, noting the museum was an essential addition to Tauranga that had been discussed for over 25 years.
“For a very long time, Te Papa has been on some form of life support,” said Councillor Hautapu Baker. “The civic whare, museum, and exhibition centre is the piece needed to restore the essence of Tauranga.”
Community Support for Cultural Preservation
The meeting drew dozens of museum supporters who filled the public gallery to advocate for the project. Former councillor Mary Dillon highlighted the importance of the civic whare and museum, calling it the “heart” of the precinct.
“This project is the key to making Tauranga’s history highly visible and will lead people on the road to informed cultural understanding,” said Dillon. “Do it right, do it well, and do it for our future.”
Alan Withy, speaking on behalf of the Elms Trust, Tauranga Historical Society, and Taonga Tu Heritage Bay of Plenty, pointed to the thousands of artifacts currently in storage awaiting a permanent home. “Museums are more than a repository — they are a gateway and a window to a city, its history, and culture,” said Withy.
Otamataha Trust chairman Puhirake Ihaka also voiced strong support for the project, emphasizing the buildings must reflect the significant relationship between mana whenua and the council. The Otamataha Trust, representing Ngāi Tamarāwaho and Ngāti Tapu hapū, jointly owns the precinct land with the council through the Te Manawataki o Te Papa Charitable Trust.
“This project restores mana to that piece of land,” said Buddy Mikaere, Otamataha Trust representative.
The Vision for Te Manawataki o Te Papa
Te Manawataki o Te Papa, meaning “the heartbeat of Te Papa,” is envisioned as a vibrant cultural and civic hub that will serve as a gathering place for residents and visitors alike. It will include a library and community hub, currently under construction and set to open in 2026, as well as the museum and exhibition centre, which are expected to be completed by the end of 2028.
Mayor Drysdale underscored the significance of the museum in revitalizing Tauranga’s CBD and providing an anchor for cultural education and tourism. “This is a significant attraction for people and a project that will define our city for generations,” he said.
Deputy Mayor Jen Scoular echoed these sentiments, describing the museum as a space for creativity, exploration, and education. “It’s time for Tauranga to say yes to a museum, exhibition centre, and civic whare. We need a place to tell our stories.”
Overcoming Financial Challenges
The project comes with considerable costs, prompting debates about affordability and prioritization. Ratepayers will fund $151.5 million of the precinct’s capital costs, with the remainder sourced from external funders, including a $21 million grant from TECT and contributions from government and local grants.
Councillor Rick Curach expressed concerns about the financial burden, citing his campaign promise to prioritize affordability. “We’ve got to start making some calls to save money,” he said. Councillor Glenn Crowther also highlighted the operational costs, projected to exceed $30 million annually, making it one of the most expensive library and museum projects in New Zealand.
Despite these concerns, Mayor Drysdale emphasized the long-term benefits and potential consequences of abandoning the project, including the loss of grants and significant sunk costs. “Stopping the project would be a financial and cultural setback for Tauranga,” he said.
A Milestone for Tauranga
For advocates like Mary Dillon, who has championed the idea of a museum since 1999, the council’s decision marks a significant milestone. “Tauranga will finally get the facility it’s deserved for so long. It will give us a real opportunity to talk about who we are and who we want to be,” she said.
The museum is more than a building; it is a symbol of Tauranga’s commitment to preserving and celebrating its history while creating a future that values cultural understanding and community engagement.
Looking Ahead
With construction underway, Te Manawataki o Te Papa promises to be a transformative project for Tauranga, enhancing its cultural landscape and positioning the city as a beacon of history and innovation. As the museum nears completion in 2028, Tauranga residents and visitors can look forward to a space that honors the past, celebrates the present, and inspires the future.
SOURCE: 1NEWS