Te Pūtiki Wharanui: "The Great Woven Gathering Place" or "The Great Binding Together of Stories and People".
The name Te Pūtiki Wharanui reflects the museum's role as a cultural and civic space where the diverse narratives of Tauranga Moana are woven together, honouring mātauranga Māori, celebrating the region's heritage, and inspiring future generations through creativity, learning, and connection.
Te Pūtiki Wharanui Tauranga Museum will bring together taonga, objects, images and stories that reflect the rich history and diverse communities of Tauranga Moana.
Alongside a permanent exhibition exploring our region's past, visitors will enjoy a changing programme of local, national and international exhibitions, ensuring there is always something new to see. A dedicated Discovery Centre, learning spaces and public programmes will create opportunities for people of all ages to explore, question and learn.
Many of the treasures that will be displayed have been carefully cared for in storage for more than 20 years. Others will return home from museums and collections around New Zealand and overseas, reconnecting our community with taonga of deep cultural and historical significance.
Located within Te Manawataki o Te Papa, the revitalised civic heart of Tauranga, the museum will be a welcoming place to experience the stories of our region and the wider world.