Mokau Museum & Gallery — Attraction in Waikato

This is worth a visit and has much on display of interest - commendable for a museum staffed by volunteers. Mokau has a much more compelling history to relate, however, than this museum achieves: the river was a major route from coast to hinterland (and remains officially a 'highway'); the Waka (canoe) Tainui, of the Polynesian Great Migration sheltered in the estuary and Mokau later marked the boundary between two Maori tribes that fought an existential struggle into the 19th century; and it exemplified the colonial settlement experience characterised by tough physical conditions, great enterprise and endurance, not least by women. But little of this combination that made Mokau so special is told. These personal, social and economic stories could be brought to light here with more pride and imagination than currently; the artefacts are there already but the narrative is lacking. I hope this can be remedied, as Mokau is a significant participant in New Zealand's early history - and not just the vibrant small town that welcomes...

Visited the Museum on 22/8/2016 seeking information on the cutter "Hero" which was abandoned on 22/7/1875 near Waitara. Cutter was towed into Mokau. Captain Doble and 2 crew lost their lives. Ian Whittaker provided a wealth of information on the cutter and her crew. We were very impressed with the Museum's holdings. Well worth a visit. Keep up the good work. Steve and...

Great visit. Found the Anderson Stationary motor which was the same as the model I have restored. Beside it was the mill display. In the that area was a black diagonal treaded wheel on a shaft with a pulley at the end. I have the same in my collection and knew it was part of a mill. Could you please advise what your knowledge of it's use is please. Thanks Don...