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President’s Column: April 2017

President’s Column: April 2017

Kia ora

These first months of 2017 have been particularly busy for the Friends and Te Papa. The museum has been buzzing with people exploring the wonders of natural history, both in Bug Lab and the ever-popular Mountains to Sea. And yes, people are still queuing for the Earthquake House and Gallipoli: The scale of our war.

A special welcome and thank you to all the new members who joined the Friends over the summer. Wellington may not have had perfect weather, but the rich diversity of Friends events has meant there has been plenty to do, experience and learn from a variety of experts both local and international. Our topics have also been wide ranging and diverse, from the 18th century French decorative arts, embroidery in Te Papa’s collection with a focus on Captain Cook’s waistcoat, the Friends’ farewell to Slice of Heaven, a special evening with Head of Art Charlotte Davy and Senior Art Curator Sarah Farrar, remembering past exhibitions and looking ahead to the new art space, Wellington’s unique geological landscape and how new technologies can transform a cultural experience.

Te Papa’s recent welcome to Sir Peter and Lady Snell, their family and friends, marked the presentation of his Olympic medals and running shoe to the museum. Sir Peter was much moved by the occasion, commenting that Te Papa is indeed a ‘house of treasures’. Sir Peter may live in the USA, but New Zealand is clearly still his emotional home. Don’t miss the chance to see these special treasures which will be on show on Level 2 until late July.

Behind the scenes, the Friends office packed up (again) and is now relocated from the temporary ‘cupboard’ to a new, light-filled space on Level Two.  Moving office at the same time as processing membership renewals had its challenges.  Your patience through this time of upheaval has been appreciated, as is your ongoing support.

Nāku noa, nā

Elizabeth Kay