Last updated June 2026
At Tairāwhiti Museum, visitors explore the history, art and Māori heritage of Gisborne through rotating exhibitions and significant collections. The museum and art gallery sits in Kelvin Park at 10 Stout Street, a five-minute walk from the CBD. It offers free entry for local residents every day, with adults paying $5 and children 12 and under free. The venue provides step-free access to main areas, free Wi-Fi, a café and a shop stocking work by local artists. Guided tours can be booked in advance, and archives are available for research.
Practical Information
| Address | 10 Stout Street, Kelvin Park, Gisborne |
| Opening hours | Monday–Saturday 10am–4pm; Sunday and public holidays 1:30pm–4pm. Closed Easter Friday, Christmas Day and Boxing Day. |
| Admission | Adults $5; 12 and under free; Friends of the Museum free; free entry every day for local residents |
| Parking | Free on Stout Street; disabled parking available outside |
| Accessibility | Step-free access to museum, café and shop; wheelchair available; some areas (including Star of Canada and Wyllie Cottage upstairs) via stairs only |
| Facilities | Exhibit Café (Mon–Fri 9am–2pm, closed weekends and statutory holidays); museum shop; free Wi-Fi; baby-changing and breastfeeding facilities |
| Photography | Generally permitted for personal use (no flash; respect signs) |
About Tairāwhiti Museum
Tairāwhiti Museum serves as the regional museum and art gallery for Gisborne, preserving and presenting the art, culture and heritage of the Tairāwhiti region. It houses collections of taonga, historical objects and contemporary works by local artists, with exhibitions that change regularly to highlight both traditional and modern expressions.
The museum occupies a central location in Kelvin Park, making it easy to combine with a visit to nearby sites such as the C Company Memorial House. Its role includes community education programmes aligned with the New Zealand Curriculum and public events that foster engagement with local stories.
Inside, visitors can view displays across multiple galleries, access the reference library and archives for deeper research, and purchase items from the shop that support Gisborne makers. The venue also offers function spaces for events and venue hire.
Exhibitions and Collections
Exhibitions at Tairāwhiti Museum rotate frequently and cover Māori arts, regional history, repatriated artefacts and contemporary Aotearoa art. Recent and ongoing shows have included printmaking retrospectives, portraiture surveys and solo presentations by local artists.
The collections emphasise toi Māori and significant taonga alongside works that reflect Gisborne’s creative community. Visitors often spend one to two hours exploring the galleries, with additional time recommended for those using the archives or attending programmes.
Access and Facilities
Free parking is available on Stout Street, and the museum is a short walk across the Peel Street Bridge from the city centre. Step-free entry leads to the main galleries, café and shop, with a wheelchair provided on request.
The Exhibit Café serves local produce Monday to Friday, while the shop offers art cards, jewellery, ceramics and other items by Tairāwhiti artists. Food, drink and large bags are not permitted in the galleries. Baby-changing facilities are available on site.
Guided tours can be arranged by contacting the museum, and the on-site archives support research enquiries. Lysnar House Studios behind the museum hosts workshops by local artist groups.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors appreciate the friendly staff, interesting mix of historical displays and contemporary art, and the pleasant café overlooking the park. Many note the compact layout makes it easy to explore in an hour or two, with good value at the low entry fee.
Reviewers often mention the welcoming atmosphere for families and locals, the quality of changing exhibitions, and the opportunity to learn about Gisborne’s Māori and settler history in one visit. The free entry for residents is frequently highlighted as a community strength.
Where to Learn More
Tairāwhiti Museum official website: Current exhibitions, opening hours, admission details and contact information.
Visit page: Practical details on access, photography policy, café hours and neighbouring attractions.
Archives and research: Information on accessing the museum’s reference library and research services.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the current opening hours?
Monday to Saturday 10am–4pm; Sunday and public holidays 1:30pm–4pm. Closed on Easter Friday, Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
How much does entry cost?
Adults pay $5. Entry is free for children 12 and under, Friends of the Museum, and all local residents every day.
Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
Main areas including the museum, café and shop have step-free access and a wheelchair is available. Some galleries and the Wyllie Cottage upstairs require stairs.
Can I take photos inside?
Personal photography is generally allowed without flash; respect any “no photography” signs on specific exhibits.
Does the museum have a café and shop?
Yes. The Exhibit Café operates Monday to Friday 9am–2pm. The shop sells art, jewellery, ceramics and gifts by local makers.
Are guided tours available?
Yes. Contact the museum to book a guided tour or enquire about venue hire.
Can I access the archives?
Research services and the reference library are available; contact the museum for access details and appointments.
Are there educational programmes for schools?
Yes. The museum runs education programmes and workshops linked to the New Zealand Curriculum; check the website for the current booklet.
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