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Akaroa, The Riviera of the South

Behind the scenes

Michael Purdie and I worked at Akaroa Museum recently, assisting museum staff with an influx of passengers from cruise ships visiting the town.

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During the summer season Akaroa will play host to over 80 ships, sometimes two in one day. It was great to be engaging with visitors again. Many people asked if we lived in the town and, when they heard we normally work at Christchurch Art Gallery, wanted to know how the Gallery and collection came through the earthquakes. They certainly were keen to find out when we will be open again!

We enjoyed the current summer exhibition as well as other temporary and more permanent displays. We were warmly welcomed and felt very much part of the museum team.

There is a real sense of local identity in Akaroa with many people being long-time residents and very much involved with community activities. The museum and its dedicated, knowledgeable staff are supported by the Friends of Akaroa Museum and volunteers.