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Museum Information

The West Coast Historical Museum tells the stories of the West Coast's illustrious past; goldmining, pounamu (greenstone), pioneer settlement, pubs and the Port of Hokitika are all well represented in the Museum's collections and displays. A 20 minute audio-visual on gold and greenstone provides a fascinating introduction to pounamu and the days of the gold-rush. The museum is housed (together with the Information Centre) in the restored Carnegie Library building.

The museum has an excellent family and local history research centre. Material available includes a library of West Coast books, a Pioneer Family Register, photographs, newspapers, biographical notes and much more. An appointment is recommended and charges do apply.

Opening Hours Museum Opening Hours 9.30 am to 5.00 pm seven days a week. Winter hours for the weekends ONLY is 10.00 am to 2.00 pm. Museum Office and Research Centre Opening Hours 9.30 to 5.00 pm all year Closed for research only at the weekends and public holidays Archives and Research Area Open 1.00pm - 4.00pm Monday to Friday - Appointment Necessary Admission charges Locals: Free (ID required) Adults: $5.00 Child<15: Free Group concession: by negotiation Admission for special exhibitions as advertised Remember if you live in Westland District, admission to the Museum is free! Contact The West Coast Historical Museum, The Carnegie Centre, Corner of Tancred and Hamilton Streets, PO Box 171, Hokitika 7842. Telephone: 03 755 6898 Email:

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