Akaroa Museum is focused on the history of Banks Peninsula.
Our collections vary from archives, archaeology and art to zoology, but the main focus is on social and cultural history. A full range of museum services is provided to the community and visitors, including changing exhibitions, research services and access to the extensive collection by appointment.
Akaroa Museum was established in 1964 around the historic Langlois-Eteveneaux House, a rare remnant of the French presence in Akaroa. Since then, the Museum has expanded to include three long term exhibition galleries, a temporary exhibitions gallery, and shop.
Two additional heritage buildings, the old Akaroa Court House and the Custom House are also under the care of the museum.
Akaroa Museum is open 363 days a year.
Staff
The museum has a small permanent staff of four, supported by casual staff and volunteers:
- Director: Lynda Wallace
- Collections Manager: Daniel Smith
- Museum Assistant: Dave Walker
- Museum Assistant: Patsy Turner
- Museum Assistant: Mark Mason
- Customer Services Assistant: Lesley Burkes-Harding
Governance
Akaroa Museum is owned and operated by the Christchurch City Council. It is part of the Art Gallery Unit in the Citizen and Community Group.
Advisory Committee
Local input to the museum is provided by the Akaroa Museum Advisory Committee, a sub-committee of the Banks Peninsula Community Board.
Friends
The museum is actively supported by the Friends of Akaroa Museum, a membership organisation dedicated to assisting the development of the museum. As a benefit of membership, Friends receive a discount at the museum shop, a regular newsletter and invitations to special events and openings.
To find out more, contact the Friends at P.O. Box 35, Akaroa, or email foamakaroa@gmail.com.