Museum mounts major exhibition on early local history

December 22nd

Motueka Museum has opened a major new six-month exhibition that explores a full spectrum of activities that make up the history of Motueka from its first land users through to early European settler families.

Titled 'Wawata Tawhiti - Distant Dreams - The Early Settlement of Motueka', the exhibition, which will run until June 2011, is about the settling of Motueka, from the Maori to Europeans; the hardships and triumphs experienced by Maori and pioneers alike; how they adapted to and tamed their new land and country; and what it was like for them.

Museum curator Pauline Westall says, "On arrival the Maori had to adapt to a different climate, vegetation and wildlife. By the time the first European settlers arrived, Maori had carved out a good living and were able to provide much needed help and provision."

She says it was all about "the sheer survival of daily living, clearing the bush to be able to cultivate the land and grow crops and vegetables. Many settled first in Riwaka then moved on to Motueka. To achieve their dreams it was hard work and dedication by one and all."

The exhibition also looks at the explorers and their part in the future settlement, including the influence of the New Zealand Company and the first surveying of the Motueka and Riwaka district. It looks at the lives of 10 settler families, the descendents of whom all still well known in the district.

The exhibition will develop over time as further photographs and stories come to light and are added.

>> , to be added to the page. [If this link doesn't work, use this form instead]

[ Return ]