Petone Settlers Museum

The Petone Settlers Museum is a local history museum located in the Wellington Provincial Centennial Memorial, a historic building in Petone, Lower Hutt, New Zealand.

The building was originally constructed to mark the Wellington province's centennial commemorations, and the museum opened in the building in 1977. The building was extensively refurbished in 2016 and is classified as a Category 1 historic building by Heritage New Zealand. The museum is housed in a beautiful Art Deco Stripped Classicism building that is a landmark in Petone. The building's architecture is impressive, and visitors will appreciate the attention to detail in its design. The museum's location on The Esplanade in Petone provides visitors with stunning views of Wellington Harbour and the surrounding hills.

The museum is a repository of information and objects that commemorate the first organised European settlers' arrival in New Zealand. Visitors will gain insight and understanding of the early settlers' lives and the challenges they faced in establishing their new homes in New Zealand. The museum's collection includes photographs, documents, and artefacts that tell the story of the early settlers' lives, including their work, leisure, and social activities. The museum's exhibits are well-curated and provide a fascinating glimpse into the early days of New Zealand's history. The museum's displays are arranged thematically, with exhibits on topics such as transport, industry, and domestic life. The museum also has a research library that is open to the public, providing access to a wealth of information about the early settlers and their lives.

The Petone Settlers Museum is free to enter, making it an accessible attraction for visitors on a budget. The museum is open seven days a week, from 10 am to 4 pm, and is closed on public holidays. The museum is run by the Hutt City Council, and visitors can find more information about the museum on the council's website. Overall, the Petone Settlers Museum is an excellent destination for visitors interested in New Zealand's early history. The museum's exhibits are informative and well-presented, and the building's architecture is impressive. Visitors will appreciate the museum's location on The Esplanade in Petone, which provides stunning views of Wellington Harbour and the surrounding hills.