Tainui Historical Society

Creating a vibrant space for generations to explore history & make meaningful connections, the Taninui Historical Society purpose is to collect, preserve, document, research, display & otherwise make available taonga, natural history & cultural heritage relating to the region.

The Mōkau Museum & Art Gallery is a special place, housing shared histories of people & place. Mōkau Museum exist due to the dedication, passion and generosity of many many volunteers & donators. Your support enables this legacy to live on and keep developing.

Background: The Tainui Hisotrical Society was started in 1980 by a dedicated group of locals with a vision. Over many years & volunteers the collection was developed & with fundraising & generous donations a dedicated building opened in 1994. Extended to include the old dental clinic & jail house of the area in 2007. Featured on TV's Heritage Rescue program Mokau Museum was given a shake up by the professionals, this included the opening of the Art Gallery in 2015. Received a Service Award for an outstanding museum visitor experience that demonstrates excellence in conceptualisation, & delivery, engagement, resourcefulness, innovation & vision in 2017. In 2018 work began with representatives of Ngāti Tama and Ngāti Maniapoto on the concept of united trust to run the museum together. In 2023, after 9 months closed the Musuem & Art Gallery was reopened with a new access ramp & front facing & new and extended displays. Come in and visit!