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HISTORY
with HEART
WELCOME TO
THE ASHBURTON
MUSEUM
Dig into the past...and discover what created your future. Engage in educational experiences and uncover the cultural and social heritage of Mid Canterbury and Aotearoa.
What's On
Explore our exhibitions and activity programmes.
Artist Talk | Nadia Curnow
At this special artist talk, Nadia Curnow will discuss her new exhibition Small Paintings Dedicated to Big Names. In this exhibition, Nadia draws inspiration from an international canon…
School Holiday Activities | July 2025
We have some great activities running throughout the school holidays for kids of all ages. Check them out below, or visit the Ashburton District Council What’s On page…
SS Ventnor Talk | Keith Gordon
In 2013, the wreck of the SS Ventnor was discovered off the North Island coast, sparking major international media interest and controversy. The ship had been transporting the…
SS Ventnor Talk | Hannah King
Hannah is a member of the Ng/Wu whānau, descendants of Ng Jor Ching, whose kōiwi—headed for reburial in China—were on board the SS Ventnor when she sank off…
Caught in the Moment: Guardian photographs of 1975
What moments in time did the Ashburton Guardian photographers capture around Whakatere Ashburton throughout 1975? This selection of photographs from our large collection of Guardian negatives will take…
Puaka Matariki: I Tō Mātou Wāhi, In Our Place
Puaka and Matariki hold great significance for Māori, marking the beginning of the Māori New Year as these special whetū first appear in the midwinter sky. While the…
Able Art Collective
Able Art Collective is a supportive space for individuals with disabilities to explore, learn, create, connect and express themselves through art. Sessions are held on the second Wednesday…
Island Breeze
Join us for our monthly Pasifika wāhine art and craft session in Ashburton! If singing, chatting, and art sounds like your cup of tea, come along on the…
In Colour
In Colour is a great way to unwind and relax with like-minded people. Bring along your art and craft projects to share with others over morning tea once a…
Art Addicts
Art Addicts (AA) is the Gallery’s weekly art space for kids during the school term. Wrap up your Wednesday school day and head to the AAGM to get…
Kōwhai Mums
Kōwhai Mums is a monthly art group that caters to ethnic and migrant mums/carers, as well as newcomers to Whakatere Ashburton. While this group has an emphasis on…