Thames Museum Te Whare Taonga o te Kauaeranga showcases the social history of our district with a modern Taonga Maori gallery and other displays relating to the arrival of James Cook in 1769; the opening of the goldfield in 1867 and the town’s development through to the mid-1900s.

Local iwi collaborated with Thames Museum Te Whare Taonga o te Kauaeranga for the opening of the Taonga Gallery in July 2022.

Peruse the general collection to discover objects from early Thames such as a display of handcrafted kauri models of heritage buildings. Check out the timeline display, and explore artifacts from previous Thames industries including forestry, mining and all the associated industries. There are also pioneer-era Thames newspapers that give a taste of the worldview and social mores of the time.

There are also displays of other collectible objects including bottles of Thames. Photography by John Field and Les Downey is featured in a major exhibition that celebrates 150 years of the township, with a focus on the 1970s.

If you’re digging the historical vibe, don’t forget to visit other historical attractions like the School of Mines, Bella Street Pumphouse or the Goldmine Experience. 

Hours
Open Daily from 10 am – 1 pm
Monday to Saturday
Sunday closed

Admission
Adult – $5
Child (5-15) – $2
Under 5 – Free
Family (2 Adults/2 Children) – $10
Group bookings are welcome – our experienced guides will enhance your visit. Please book ahead.