Auckland is one of the leading multi-cultural cities in the world and like most metropolitan centres, the majority of residents were born somewhere else. So how do we describe and define ourselves, as Aucklanders? The stories that begin to answer that question are told in many languages, over many centuries, and through many objects. Tāmaki Herenga Waka means "the gathering place of many waka", and this new suite of permanent galleries chronicle Auckland's past, capture its present, and look to the future of this city.
Our aim in developing these galleries was to ensure that most Aucklanders could see themselves reflected in the histories and stories presented. The galleries contain items from across the broad span of the Museum’s collections and have been chosen to capture the experiences and perspectives of the many peoples that live in Tāmaki Mākaurau (“the city that is loved by many”).
This means that Tāmaki Herenga Waka is your space. It belongs to every single one of us who calls Auckland home.