The Rotorua Museum is one of the best known Rotorua family attractions. This outstanding Maori culture museum features numerous fascinating exhibits which will capture the imagination of any visitor.

The Cure Gallery tells the story of Rotorua’s once famous Bath House, the building which now houses the museum. In the early 20th century The Bath House was perhaps New Zealand’s most famed attraction, which lured a steady stream of visitors including notable celebrities. Many unusual and even bizarre treatments were administered at the site.

The enthralling Te Arawa Gallery tells the story of a group of people collectively known as the Maoris. The displays recount the tale of how a group of people from the Polynesian Islands embarked on a daring voyage across the vast waters in order to find greener pastures. These people, expert seafarers, eventually landed in the islands now known as New Zealand and made this fertile land their new home.

Meanwhile the Maori Battalion Gallery shows the indigenous people of New Zealand in an entirely different perspective. It recounts the courage and tenacity of a battalion consisting of Maoris which served with distinction in the Allied Forces during World War II, seeing action in Crete, Greece, Italy and North Africa.

Not to be missed are the Cinema Experiences at the museum, which present two enthralling documentaries; Rotorua Stories Cinema, which explores the geographical and cultural highlights of Rotorua, and Maori Battalion Cinema, which tells the story of the intrepid Maori Battalion.

Visitors should also take the opportunity to experience the panoramic landscapes which may be observed from the Viewing Platform located on the museum building’s rooftop.