Tawhiti Museum

“After about 5 hours wandering through the amazing museum the Badgers Cafe just had to be the next stop for food and drink. Lovely peaceful experience, great food and service. I would recommend that anybody travelling through Taranaki should not miss this wonderful experience.”

“This is my favourite museum in New Zealand. Going back in time to the 1800’s, so many stories of people and their lives. Make sure you visit the massive collection of farm machinery and hidden house with Ron Morrieson’s story. You can do an additional boat ride in the whalers station or train ride. Finish your journey with a coffee at the badgers cafe, inspired by Wind in the Willows. I highly recommend. 🥰😊👍 Allow a few hours for the visit. Open Fri - Mon in summer. Only open Sun in Winter.”

“What a treasure! Local whanau shared this experience with me and as they had been before, shared nothing of the place. They waited, for me to see and hear all that it offered. I was not disappointed! If you are interested in seeing a very visual display of local history, then this is the place for you. The amazing dioramas, models and much much more are quite something. I highly recommend, plenty of parking, a shop and a lovely cafe.”

“A must visit Tawhiti Museum in Hawera is a hidden gem that brings Taranaki’s history to life through stunning handcrafted dioramas and life-size figures. Created by artist Nigel Ogle, the detail is extraordinary—each scene feels immersive and personal. Highlights include the Trader & Whalers boat ride, the bush railway, and a vast collection of vintage farm machinery. It’s engaging for all ages, and well worth the visit. Plan for 2–3 hours to take it all in.”