Pātaka Art + Museum

Pātaka Art + Museum is a true gem in the crown that is the valuable resource of Porirua art and history. Open since 1998, the museum and gallery is home to plenty of curious intricacies, cabinets of fine and fancy jewellery, walls of prints, fabric works, photographs and paintings, not to mention impressive Māori and Pacific history. Make your way around the Whiti Te Rā! exhibition to learn about the local iwi, Ngāti Toa Rangatira—from their economic rise in the early 19th century, bitter conflicts with the colonial government a couple of decades later, through the two world wars and their Treaty settlement—in carvings, stories and interactive kiosks.

Four different gallery spaces mean there’s always plenty of variety when it comes to what’s on, and the cool, clean, quiet space allows plenty of time to peruse the treasures at your own pace. From drawers full of pounamu pendants to local photographers showing off their best work, Pātaka is all about the best of the best when it comes to artistic ability. A happy place for small people too, Pātaka has an impressive interactive kids' zone displaying facts about Porirua Harbour and all the wildlife that calls it home. Get cosy on the cushions and watch as the puzzles and games keep curious minds entertained.

Want a little Pātaka to take home with you? The gallery shop has plenty of gifts, books, jewellery, ceramics and prints for the art-loving friend or family member in your life.