Discover the Rich Heritage at Dargaville Museum
Explore the rich history and culture of Dargaville at Te Whare Taonga o Tunatahi - a must-visit museum in Northland, New Zealand.
The Dargaville Museum, or Te Whare Taonga o Tunatahi, stands as a beacon of heritage and culture in the charming town of Dargaville, New Zealand. This museum is a treasure trove of local history, showcasing fascinating exhibits that tell the story of the area’s Maori and European heritage. Visitors can explore a diverse range of artifacts, including historical photographs, Maori carvings, and memorabilia from Dargaville’s thriving past in the timber and gum industries. The museum's friendly and knowledgeable staff are always on hand to provide insights and enhance your visit. Set against the backdrop of stunning rural scenery, the museum is located on Mount Wesley, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. As you walk through its halls, you’ll not only appreciate the exhibits but also the peaceful surroundings that make this museum a perfect spot for reflection and learning. Don't miss the outdoor displays, where you can see vintage machinery and vehicles that once played a pivotal role in the local economy. Plan your visit to coincide with one of the museum’s special exhibitions or community events, which often highlight local artists and cultural practices, ensuring a dynamic experience that reflects the vibrant spirit of the Dargaville community. Whether you're a history buff, a cultural enthusiast, or simply seeking a unique experience, the Dargaville Museum promises a memorable journey through time.
Local tips
- Visit during the week for a quieter experience, as weekends can be busier with local visitors.
- Check the museum's website for any special exhibitions or events happening during your visit.
- Take your time to enjoy the outdoor displays as well, which feature historical machinery and artifacts.
- Engage with the staff; they offer valuable insights that can enrich your understanding of the exhibits.
- Bring a camera to capture the beautiful scenery surrounding the museum.
A brief summary to Dargaville Museum / Te Whare Taonga o Tunatahi
- 32 Mount Wesley Coast Rd, Dargaville, 0371, NZ
- +6494397555
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4 pm
- Friday 9 am-4 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4 pm
- Sunday 9 am-4 pm
Getting There
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Car
From Auckland, take State Highway 1 (SH1) north. After about 2 hours, merge onto State Highway 12 (SH12) at the Wellsford exit. Continue on SH12 for approximately 1.5 hours until you reach Dargaville. Once in Dargaville, follow Victoria Street until it merges into the Dargaville-Waipu Road. Continue straight until you reach Mount Wesley Coast Road. Turn left onto Mount Wesley Coast Road, and the Dargaville Museum / Te Whare Taonga o Tunatahi will be on your right at 32 Mount Wesley Coast Road.
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Public Transportation
Take a bus from Auckland to Dargaville. Intercity and other regional bus services operate routes between Auckland and Dargaville. The journey takes approximately 4-5 hours, so plan accordingly. After arriving in Dargaville, you can either walk or take a local taxi to reach the Dargaville Museum. The museum is about 2.5 kilometers from the bus station, which is approximately a 30-minute walk. If you prefer to take a taxi, the fare will typically range from NZD 10-15.
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Car from Whangarei
If you are coming from Whangarei, take State Highway 14 (SH14) west towards Dargaville. The drive takes about 1 hour. Once you reach Dargaville, follow the directions as above: continue on Victoria Street, then Dargaville-Waipu Road, and turn left onto Mount Wesley Coast Road. The museum will be on your right at 32 Mount Wesley Coast Road.
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Local Transport
If you are already in Dargaville, you can use local taxis or rideshare services to reach the museum. Depending on your starting point in Dargaville, a taxi ride should cost between NZD 5-10. Alternatively, you can rent a bicycle from local shops to enjoy a scenic ride to the museum.
Attractions Nearby to Dargaville Museum / Te Whare Taonga o Tunatahi
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Tokatoka Peak Lookout
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Kai Iwi Lakes
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Wairua Falls
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Trounson Kauri Park
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The Kauri Museum
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Ruatuna - Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga.
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Packard Motor Museum
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Waipoua Forest Trust
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Kamo Wildlife Sanctuary
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Kiwi North: Museum, Kiwi House and Heritage Park
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Whangarei Steam and Model Railway Club
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Waipoua Forest
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Longview Estate
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Waipu Caves Farm Park
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Raumanga Waterfall
Landmarks nearby to Dargaville Museum / Te Whare Taonga o Tunatahi
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Whangarei isite Visitor Information Centre
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Tarewa Park
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Mander Park
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Robinson Memorials
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Heartland Services - Whangerei (at The Pulse)
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Whangarei Growers Market
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Art In Stone - Headstones
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Craniums Whangarei
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Arthurs Emporium
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Astroboy NZ
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The Cell Block Backpackers
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The Butter Factory
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Judge - House Of Ale
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Putahi Park
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Wairau Maori Art Gallery