Welcome to Western Bay Museum in Katikati, a small museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history and cultural heritage of the Western Bay of Plenty. As a registered Charitable Trust, we strive to be the best small museum in Aotearoa, upholding the highest standards with the support of Museums Aotearoa and Te Papa National Services Te Paerangi. Our museum offers a wide range of activities and services.

We conserve, preserve, catalogue, and display over 11,000 items of historical significance from the Western Bay of Plenty's past. Our recently appointed Curator is diligently working on fully cataloguing our collection to ensure a comprehensive experience for our visitors. When you visit, you'll have the opportunity to explore our exhibitions that change three to four times a year, as well as experience our interactive technology and a 1900s school room.

Our friendly and knowledgeable volunteers offer guided tours, giving you a chance to immerse yourself in the rich history of the area. We also place great importance on community engagement. Our museum actively collaborates with local iwi and hapu, with a focus on the natural, physical, and cultural heritage of the region.

Through our education programs, such as the 1900s school lesson and Treasuring Our Place nature-based program, we provide interactive and fun learning experiences for local school children. With our dedication to preserving the past and embracing the future, Western Bay Museum invites you to come and explore the fascinating history of the Western Bay of Plenty. We are open Monday to Friday from 10am to 4pm, and on weekends and public holidays from 11am to 3pm