MTG Hawke's Bay

Very interesting museum, I have learned that 1) Napier is named after Sir Charles Napier, a 19th-century British military hero in India. 2) A devastating 1931 earthquake lifted the land, leading to a massive rebuild in the popular Art Deco style, making it a famous architectural destination.

went to the museum last Saturday 25th Oct 2025, the staff was very friendly, i bought some Napier postcards from there. The museum has 3 floors and one of them is dedicated to the Napier earthquake back in 1931. It was surreal and very touching to see and read those history. Should pop at this museum when you have time in Napier!

I very much enjoyed this museum with 3 floors, not too big , just right. Im not sure if they change what is on display but basement floor is about the earthquakes that happened in Napier, 2nd floor about the native (tangata whenua) of the local area, and the top floor artwork. Was free entry at the time we went.

Free entry and definitely worth a visit. The exhibitions are great—interactive and very informative. The staff were friendly and welcoming. Highly recommended if you’re in Hawke’s Bay.

The perfect little museum in the heart of napier, tons of free exhibits with lots of great historical information. Basement floor was closed but only due to renovations which is fair, hope the revamp looks good!

Nice museum and art. Enjoyed the shaking tables you could play with. The video before the room shook like a earthquake was entertaining.

MTG Hawke's Bay is a great place to learn about the art and culture of the Hawke's Bay region and beyond. The museum houses a diverse collection of art, including Māori treasures, contemporary works, and historical artifacts from Napier's Earthquake. The Māori collection is particularly impressive, featuring intricate carvings, textiles, and weapons. The museum also has a dedicated Māori gallery, which provides visitors with a deeper understanding of Māori culture and history. Overall, MTG Hawke's Bay is a well-curated and informative museum, however the ladies working there were surprisingly very unkind, which sadly downgraded the experience.

Walked into this lovely museum to be met by the nicest lady, so welcoming and knowledgeable.The museum houses a fine collection of attifacts, and an awesome film interview with survivors of the earthquake that wiped out Napier. Easy to navigate, free entry. Photo friendly too.