The name Te Manawa comes from the word “Manawa” which means heart.  Te Manawa also refers to Manawa-tu, which was the name given to the Manawatu River by the ancestor Haunui. As he came upon the river, the awe inspiring presence of the river made his heart stand still.

Te Manawa brings you a different awe inspiring experience.

Different - because the fascination of History, Art and Science come alive, through a multitude of interactive and two dimensional exhibitions.

Different - because Te Manawa Collection objects are presented - quirky, beautiful or ingenious - presenting evidence of past habits, sacrifices and creations not seen elsewhere and inviting us to think about our future.

Different - because stories about the people of the Manawatu are told with pride.

Several of our exhibitions are created here at Te Manawa.  Others are touring exhibitions, acquired on loan from throughout New Zealand, Australia or other parts of the globe.

Te Manawa exhibitions heighten your senses, reward your brain and entertain you and can be enjoyed with your family, your friends, your workmates or on your own.

At the heart of Te Manawa, History, Art and Science are weaved together to create a stimulating and fun experience.

Experience Te Manawa

Museum: Vital, inspiring, challenging journeys. Te Manawa celebrates the people and events that have shaped our region.

Gallery: Vibrant, startling, pulsating ideas. Te Manawa shares the vision of artists.

Science Centre: Electrifying, fascinating, tantalising glimpses of the world around us. Te Manawa explores science and technology and ignites imagination.