Museum collection passed to Trust’s hands

Western Bay Heritage Trust Trustees from left Chair Carole Parker, Allan Sole, David Askew, Lisa Murray.

Museum collection passed to Trust's hands

Ownership of the former Katikati Museum collection has been passed into the hands of the Western Bay Heritage Trust.

The collection has been under the custodianship of Western Bay of Plenty District Council for almost three years.

Council's Operations Committee has recommended that the Western Bay Heritage Trust reclaim the collection, having successfully run the museum for the past year and fulfilling all its obligations to Council including completing a two-year Strategic Plan.

Western Bay Mayor Garry Webber says the Trust has proven its commitment to paving a viable path for the museum.

"Council is happy to pass ownership of the collection to the Trust - always with the proviso that, if circumstances change in the future, the collection will return to Council's ownership.''

The collection comprises 11,000 items and has been under the care of Council while the Trust had responsibility for its storage and safety.

Trust Chairwoman Carole Parker told the committee that the current availability for free storage has lapsed forcing the Trust to consider options for the collection. New storage has been found in Katikati.

Carole said gaining ownership is a progressive step for the Trust. The museum has grown in popularity in the past 10 months with three exhibitions, a very successful school programme and a robust programme for future exhibits and school interaction.

"The museum is building its credibility and reputation as a `not-to-be-missed' museum,'' says Carole.

"We are delighted Council has given us ownership of the collection. It gives us the responsibility and authority to research the items, document them and manage these treasure on behalf of the community.

"The Trust is now the guardian of the collection and we will hold it in trust for the people of the Western Bay District.''