Te Ūaka past, present, and future

In association with the Christchurch Heritage Festival 2026, Te Ūaka The Lyttelton Museum is pleased to present Te Ūaka past, present, and future an exhibition exploring the museum’s journey through more than 50 years including the two sites it has previously inhabited (2 Hawkhurst Road, 2 Gladstone Quay) as well as its current site (35 London Street) for which there is a bold vision for a future museum.

The physical journey of Te Ūaka Lyttelton Museum is a story of connections. Founded as a reaction to the mistreatment of copies of the Lyttelton Times, the museum's shifting locations – from military barracks to the Seamen’s Institute, and finally to London Street – mirror the harbour's evolving infrastructure.

This exhibition highlights the human connections that have sustained these "harbour stories" through disaster and development. From the watersiders and volunteers who united to relocate the collection in 1980, to the museum’s foundational partnership with Te Hapū o Ngāti Wheke today, its history proves that community connections shape our shared future.

Access to the cabin is via stairs from London Street or from a carpark at the rear (flat access from Oxford Street).

Volunteers will be present to provide historical insights and assist with enquiries.

Exhibition Details:

• Dates: October 17–18 & October 24–26

• Hours: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM daily

• Location: The Museum Cabin, 35 London Street, Lyttelton