Things to do in Bay of Plenty Region, North Island: The Best Museums

From June 2020, Bibleworld is open by appointment only. Visit our website to book an appointment - www.bibleworld.org.nz Bibleworld Museum and Discovery Centre is an enjoyable and interactive museum for adults and children to learn about the ancient world in which the Biblical events took place. We have a great range of scale models, ancient artefacts, replicas and hands on activities for all ages.

After more than 130 years away, Mataatua Wharenui - New Zealand's only repatriated and most travelled Maori meeting house - stands once again as the unifying soul of the Ngati Awa (one of the Maori tribes of the Bay of Plenty) New Zealand. Built in 1875, it travelled to Sydney, Melbourne, Victoria & Albert Museum and South Kensington Museum (London), Dunedin and Otago (South Island) before being rebuilt back in its place of origin, Whakatane, in 2011. Your journey at Mataatua (The Face of God) will Ignite the Soul within, as you discover the extraordinary story of the house that has travelled through time. Mataatua is a living and breathing being and our experience provides an opportunity for intimate engagement with the people of Ngati Awa. Be enthralled as the carvings and legends of Ngati Awa are brought to life through world-class digital technology. A spine tingling experience, HIKO; Legends Carved in Light, is the 2011 GOLD Nga Aho award winner from the New Zealand Designers Institute.

Contemporary New Zealand art and giftware.

Taneatua Gallery is a contemporary art gallery, exhibiting works by international artists, emerging artists, and shows to revitalise our community

Waihi Beach Gallery - situated at main street Waihi Beach - Art, Ceramics, Mixed Media & Glass - NZ Made - Coffee shop - Friendly staff.

A unique record of the military history of Rhodesia (now called Zimbabwe) from 1890 to 1980. Displays include and Alouette III helicopter, medals, badges, weapons, uniforms, equipment, shop, souvenirs, library and Memorial Garden. Personal service for every visitor. PLEASE NOTE: 1) We are closed on Public Holidays 2)With sufficient notice we will try and accommodate requests to open by appointment outside normal times/days of operation. Please call the mobile phone number above with your request.

Come into Amokura Glass to see how glass objects are made or to try working with glass yourself. Watch our artists shape one of the most dynamic and fascinating materials on earth, molten glass. Watch as the glass moves and glows! Our artists will pinch pull and blow the glass into different forms to make one of a kind glass art. After watching how the glass is shaped, you can shop in the gallery to pick up your own unique piece of glass. Want to give it a go? We offer workshops every weekend in blown and fused glass. Learn how to make your own glass paperweight, pumpkin or tile! Sign up online! Summer hours 9am- 5pm (Nov 1- April 1). Demos from 9:20-2:30 Winter house 10am- 5pm (April 1 - Nov1). Demos from 1:00- 5:00

A multi faceted community of creative people, enriching the arts and culture within the Bay of Plenty . A vibrant and accessible platform for community arts, performances and exhibitions. Interact with practicing profession artists one-on one in their studios, experience high quality authentic original NZ art in three unique gallery spaces.