Canterbury Museum










Monday9:00 am – 5:00 pm.
Tuesday9:00 am – 5:00 pm.
Wednesday9:00 am – 5:00 pm.
Thursday9:00 am – 5:00 pm.
Friday9:00 am – 5:00 pm.
Saturday9:00 am – 5:00 pm.
Sunday9:00 am – 5:00 pm.
It’s exciting times for Canterbury Museum as a major five-year redevelopment is now underway at its Rolleston Avenue site. This means that the museum is closed to the public for the duration of the works. But, do not fear–while we wait for the opening of the brand new museum, a pop-up a few blocks away serves as a temporary museum space.
The museum pop-up can be found upstairs in the CoCA building on Gloucester Street, just around the corner from Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū. Half of the exhibition space is dedicated to showcasing temporary exhibitions, which will change a few times a year to keep things interesting for returning visitors.
The other half of the space displays museum collection highlights and visitor favourites, such as the much-loved horse that most little ones enjoy riding, objects from the old Antarctic Gallery, an impressive locally discovered moa bone, and a number of rarely displayed items including exotic taxidermied animals.
At the museum pop-up, visitors can also take a look at plans for the redevelopment and get an idea of what to expect when the museum reopens its doors beside the Botanic Gardens.
Visiting the pop-up museum is free, though donations are much appreciated. Its upstairs exhibition space can be accessed via stairs or elevator. Downstairs, you’ll find the CoCA exhibition space, which showcases modern art made in or connected to Waitaha Canterbury, as well as Lux Espresso, brewers of some of the best coffee in town.
Words by Petra Nyman & Photography by Ashleigh Vermaak
Information not correct? Report an error
Location
66 Gloucester St, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch
Nearby Places
Lux Espresso

Positioned in the entrance of CoCA Gallery, Lux Espresso has a contemporary design and a wholesome breakfast and lunch menu.
Lovoir Day Spa

As soon as you step inside Lovoir Day Spa at The Crossing in Christchurch, you will find yourself enveloped by an atmosphere of luxury and sophistication.
Tanoshi

Tanoshi has made a name for itself in Queenstown with three popular sites, each with a slightly different focus. But its Christchurch restaurant is a fusion of them all.
Rollickin' Gelato

House made organic milk gelatos and sorbets mean Rollickin’ is the talk of the town.
Similar Places
Movementor Pilates

Movementor is a well-known Pilates studio situated within the Beckenham hub at the corner of Christchurch’s Colombo and Tennyson Streets.
New Brighton Community Gardens

Around Christchurch Ōtautahi there are so many unique suburbs and within these, there are amazing communities and initiatives that deserve the spotlight.
Nifty

Driving along the industrial end of Christchurch's Cashel Street, you don’t expect to come across a pale pink pop of colour that is the Nifty building.
Hinewai Reserve

Not far from the township of Akaroa (walking distance if you’re really game), lies an idyllic haven of regenerating native bush nestled in the wild south east corner...

