Pātaka Art + Museum
Monday10:00 am – 5:00 pm.
Tuesday10:00 am – 5:00 pm.
Wednesday10:00 am – 5:00 pm.
Thursday10:00 am – 5:00 pm.
Friday10:00 am – 5:00 pm.
Saturday10:00 am – 5:00 pm.
Sunday10:00 am – 5:00 pm.
Pātaka Art + Museum is a true gem in the crown that is the valuable resource of Porirua art and history. Open since 1998, the museum and gallery is home to plenty of curious intricacies, cabinets of fine and fancy jewellery, walls of prints, fabric works, photographs and paintings, not to mention impressive Māori and Pacific history. Make your way around the Whiti Te Rā! exhibition to learn about the local iwi, Ngāti Toa Rangatira—from their economic rise in the early 19th century, bitter conflicts with the colonial government a couple of decades later, through the two world wars and their Treaty settlement—in carvings, stories and interactive kiosks.
Four different gallery spaces mean there’s always plenty of variety when it comes to what’s on, and the cool, clean, quiet space allows plenty of time to peruse the treasures at your own pace. From drawers full of pounamu pendants to local photographers showing off their best work, Pātaka is all about the best of the best when it comes to artistic ability. A happy place for small people too, Pātaka has an impressive interactive kids' zone displaying facts about Porirua Harbour and all the wildlife that calls it home. Get cosy on the cushions and watch as the puzzles and games keep curious minds entertained.
Want a little Pātaka to take home with you? The gallery shop has plenty of gifts, books, jewellery, ceramics and prints for the art-loving friend or family member in your life.
Words by Rosie Morrison & Photography by Anna Briggs
Information not correct? Report an error
Location
17 Parumoana Street, Porirua City Centre, Porirua
Nearby Places
Louis by Louis Sergeant
A household name in Wellington for as long as anyone can remember, the Louis Sergeant brand continues to make its presence felt across the region.
Café Kaizen
Café Kaizen is the kind of well-oiled machine that you can tell has been a locals' favourite hangout for a long time.
IndoKiwi Dhaba
If there’s anything better than an Indian restaurant, it’s one with an Indian grocery conveniently attached to it.
Te Rauparaha Arena
Te Rauparaha Arena is the place to come when you feel like moving your body.
Similar Places
Pāuatahanui Wildlife Reserve
Originally developed as a sanctuary for birds and other creatures populating the area, the Pāuatahanui Wildlife Reserve doubles as a quiet retreat for humans as well.
Escarpment Track
Escarpment Walk is a beautiful coastal trail that boasts stunning views of the Kāpiti Coast nearly all the way through.
Light House Cinema Pauatahanui
Light House Cinema Pauatahanui is the only independent movie spot for some miles around.
Te Ara Piko Walkway
The Te Ara Piko pathway offers one of the best long walks in the Porirua region, taking you along the entire northern side of the Pāuatahanui Inlet across diverse and stunning terrain.