Lakes District Museum & Gallery

Our museum is packed full of intriguing information revealing the early social and cultural history of the Wakatipu region.

Open daily 8.30am – 5pm.

Museum

This award-winning Lakes District Museum offers a fascinating insight into the history of early Maori in the area, moa hunters and greenstone gatherers, the exciting goldrush era, the Chinese settlement and the harsh pioneering days of the European settlers

1 / 5

The Art Gallery

The Lakes District Museum and Gallery's special exhibition gallery hosts a variety of excellent quality art and historical exhibitions. Space in the gallery can be booked and is highly sought after.

2 / 5

Info Centre

We are able to assist with booking all your activities while you are in the Wakatipu. Just ask at reception and leave the planning up to us. The only thing you need to worry about is enjoying your holiday.

3 / 5

Retail / Bookshop

Whether you are looking for the perfect present or the ideal souvenir to remember your time in Arrowtown, the Lakes District Museum bookstore has the solution.
We stock only the best natural and social history publications, historical fiction, local history, tramping guide books & maps, postcards, gift cards, calendars and an array of tasteful souvenirs.

4 / 5

Post Office

Situated opposite the Lakes District Museum & Gallery, Arrowtown’s iconic Post and Telegraph Office was built in 1915 after the original building was destroyed by fire. The site has been the communication hub of Arrowtown since the discovery of gold in 1862.

5 / 5

About the Lakes District Museum & Gallery

The award winning Lakes District Museum is appropriately set in the former gold mining town of Arrowtown. The museum complex is set around 3 historical buildings including the town’s original bank.

The exhibits present an authentic picture of early Maori, the harsh pioneering days of the European settlers and the exciting gold rush era of the mid to late 1800’s. The museum also has an attached book shop and attached special exhibitions gallery showing a changing display of art and history related exhibitions.

The museum is Arrowtown’s information and booking centre and has information about accommodation and the areas walking and cycling tracks.

We can also book all other district wide activities. All sorts of options are available for conference, incentive and tour groups.