New Raglan Museum a great success

The number of people visiting the new Raglan Museum is well ahead of expectations.
Initially it was hoped that 1500 visitors would visit the museum in its first year in the new building. However, so far more than 3000 people have visited the museum to enjoy the history of Raglan Whaingaroa since it opened in November 2011. This count doesn’t include the large number of locals who went along to the two community open days.

Museum President Dr Patrick Day says, “It is now clear that more than the entire population of Raglan will visit the museum in its first year. We are thrilled that the museum is receiving such support. It is particularly pleasing to see so many school groups visiting the museum. Overall it is looking as if about 4,500 people will visit the museum in its first year. That is triple the number we were hoping for.”

The museum’s exhibits have been developed steadily during the year. Repeat visitors notice the continuing growth in the size and range of the displays. Currently an exhibition of surfing in Raglan is being prepared . Surfing is of considerable importance to Raglan both culturally and financially. The surfing exhibition has been made possible a grant of $20,000 from the Gallagher Group. The exhibition has grown from the generous donations from many individuals of surfing memorabilia. Any more will be gratefully received.

While the museum is staffed by unpaid volunteers it is still a a considerable financial undertaking to run the museum. Happily the museum’s finances received a considerable boost with an annual grant of $20,000 towards museum expenses from the Waikato District Council in its recent long term plan. Dr Day said, “The grant makes our future more secure. The Council grant is not only pleasing in itself but is also a signal to other organizations that the local council considers the Raglan Museum to be well worth its support.”

The museum which is situated at15Wainuj Road -is open seven days a week. It is a treasure house of Raglan and district material. An essential part of the Raglan experience it is well a worth a visit.

The annual general meeting of the museum society will be held in the museum on Monday 1st October at 10am . All members and interested parties are welcome to attend.