Norsewood Pioneer Museum

Norsewood Pioneer Museum is a popular attraction located in the small rural settlement of Norsewood, in the Tararua District and Manawatu-Whanganui region of New Zealand's North Island.

The museum was opened in December 1965, and it started as a project to collect and present the relics of Scandinavian pioneer settlers from 1872. The museum is housed in an 1888 building in Upper Norsewood, which is one of the two parts of the village. The other part is Lower Norsewood, located 1 km to the south.

The museum is a great place to learn about the Scandinavian heritage of the district. It is furnished in a colonial Scandinavian style with original artifacts, including clothing, tools, and household items. Visitors can explore the museum's exhibits and learn about the history of Norsewood and the Scandinavian settlers who made it their home. The museum also has a gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs and Scandinavian-inspired items.

The village of Norsewood was founded by mainly Norwegian settlers in 1872 as a loggers’ settlement and retains a Scandinavian tenor. The museum building survived a fire in 1888 and was used as a school until 1958. Today, it is a historic landmark and a testament to the resilience of the settlers who built it. The museum is open to visitors from Wednesday to Sunday, from 10 am to 4 pm. Admission is free, but donations are welcome. The museum is staffed by volunteers who are passionate about preserving the history of Norsewood and sharing it with visitors.

In addition to the museum, visitors to Norsewood can also visit other attractions in the area, such as the Norsewood Cemetery, which has a collection of books and other resources related to the history of the settlement. Visitors can also explore the surrounding countryside, which is known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. Overall, Norsewood Pioneer Museum is a fascinating attraction that offers visitors a glimpse into the history and heritage of the Scandinavian settlers who made Norsewood their home. With its collection of original artifacts and exhibits, the museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history of New Zealand and its settlers.