Open late
31 July 1871
Late-night openings began as early as July 1871, when Frederick Whitaker arranged for the Museum to be open on Wednesday evenings and to be lighted by gas. Today the Museum’s night-time events include the panel discussion series LATE, and the popular after-hours Night at the Museum for families.
The iconic building is regularly lit up to commemorate Anzac Day, celebrate events and special occasions, or to show solidarity.
For Pride Week 2014, the Museum was illuminated in the rainbow colours of the LGBTQIA movement. Courtesy of Auckland Museum
On the move
22 November 1871
In 1876 the first purpose-built premises for Auckland Museum opened on Princes St.
A fundraising committee had been set up in 1871 for this purpose, led by Thomas Gilles.
Soon the collection and library outgrew this building, and in 1929 the Museum moved to its permanent home, here in Auckland Domain.
The first purpose-built premises for the Auckland Institute and Museum. Auckland Museum Collection: PH-NEG-C17017-C5955