Whangarei Museums
For its size, Whangarei enjoys a good selection of art galleries and museums, two of which are located within the recently developed Town Basin complex:
- Claphams Clock Museum
The largest collection of clocks, timepieces and music boxes in the Southern Hemisphere, with more than 400 timepieces dating back as far as 1636. There is a resident Austrian clockmaker and regular tours are available.
- Whangarei Art Museum
Located in Cafler Park, at the city's heart, the museum is the permanent home of the city's art collection. It features both heritage and contemporary works, and a changing programme of internally curated and national touring exhibitions.
Further afield and requiring transport are:
- Whangarei Museum
Located on State Highway 14 at Maunu, this museum focuses on the North - its history, culture and people. It also incorporates Heritage Park, the Kiwi House and the Clarke Homestead.
- The Kauri Museum
Located on State Highway 12 at Matakohe, the Kauri Museum features displays about kauri trees, timber and gum, as well as pioneering in New Zealand.