Museum reopens

The Martinborough Colonial Museum has now reopened after a makeover.   Thanks to a grant from Eastern and Central Trust the aging, damaged wallpaper in the main rooms has been replaced. The new paper was made by Ben Masters at Paperhands,.   At his studio in the old Martinborough library space Ben designs and screenprints unique handprinted wallpapers.  He was able to copy an early 1900s design to make the update as authentic as possible.

Chair of the Colonial Museum Trust, Derek Wilson, said he was very pleased that the wallpaper could be sourced from a Martinborough artist. “It means it has a real connection to the community and adds to the museum’s collection of local treasures.

We‘ve also been able to build new cabinetry to help display and preserve some of the more fragile exhibits.   It’s made from local windfall totora gifted by Jo and Phil Guscott.  

In 2019 we plan to create a series of changing displays to showcase more of the museum’s collection so watch this space to see what’s coming up next.  

If you are interested in becoming involved as a volunteer at the museum please get in touch.  There are a variety of different roles available.”

For more information contact Derek Wilson on 06 306 9722 or email derektric@xtra.co.nz

Museum opening hours: Saturday and Sunday 1.30-3.30pm.