A museum working beyond boundaries at the cultural heart of our city. Te Manawa draws art, science and heritage together to reflect our past, illuminate the present and inspire a creative and sustainable future for our people.

We pride ourselves on being a place that represents and celebrates diversity, courage and curiosity – shaping the future while honouring the traditions of our past.

For twenty years, Te Manawa has been governed by a charitable trust that has responsibility for the art and heritage collections of Palmerston North. As a non-profit organisation and registered charity, we’re reliant upon grants and donations to deliver this important mission.

We are the caretakers of the treasures and stories of our people… stories told, in all voices – in every sound, in every beat and in every colour.

We hope you’ll feel passionate and excited about Te Manawa, the collections we care for, and the experiences we shape with you.

Te Manawa Museums Trust is a Palmerston North City Council-controlled organisation and registered charitable trust incorporated on 20 August 1999. From that date, the Trust has had responsibility for art works and heritage assets transferred to its care but held on behalf of others.

Te Manawa’s three founding organisations continue to support its development and vision to this day. Our enduring relationship ensures that the community of Palmerston North City is well-served by a meaningful engagement with art, science and social history, and that it is empowered to take its stories to the world.

Funding, donations and sponsorship help keep our Museum entry free, and it also allows us to develop and tour, or bring to our city, major exhibitions. We are grateful for the continuing support of our stakeholders and community partners.