Te Wharekura

About Te Wharekura 

Te Wharekura is a cultural learning space in the heart of Tāmaki Makaurau / Auckland. Built in 1915, the kiosk has been part of Auckland's waterfront for more than 100 years.

In 2020, Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei and Auckland Council worked together to create Te Wharekura. It is a place where visitors can learn about the people and places of this rohe (region) through:

• toi (art)
• digital storytelling
• guided activities.

Te Wharekura is more than a building — it is a place where Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei share their:

• stories
• values 
• ways of life with the community. 

It is a space that brings together the:

• past
• present 
• future.

We are supported by Auckland Council’s Environmental Services team.

Our name and kaupapa (purpose) 

Our name, Te Wharekura, is inspired by Te Wharekura-a-Manukapua. This was the first whare (house) built when the waka Mahuhu-ki-te-rangi arrived in Kaipara. That whare protected taonga (treasures) from Hawaiki. Today, this city whare protects and shares stories handed down through generations. It is a place where mana whenua identity is seen, celebrated and carried forward.

Our kaupapa: Taiao ora, tangata ora. When the environment is healthy, people are healthy. 

We offer experiences that show the connection between whenua (land), moana (sea) and tangata (people). These experiences inspire visitors to take action to protect what matters. 

Check out our upcoming events on our Facebook page.

Opening hours 

General public 

• Tuesday to Thursday, 10am to 5pm 
• Friday and Saturday, 10am to 4pm.

Programme 

• Interactive displays exploring: 
  • ahi-kā (ongoing connection to place)
  • te taiao (the environment)
  • the role of culture in daily life.
• Art and design by Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei artists.
• Kaimanaaki (hosts) to welcome and guide you through the digital experience.

Guided experiences

We provide guided experiences for schools, workplaces and the public.

Visit our website to book a guided tour.

Contact us 

117 Quay Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland Waterfront.

info@tewharekura.com

  https://www.facebook.com/TeWharekura/

Admission 

Entry is free.

Some workshops or guided experiences may have a fee.

Bookings at Te Wharekura 

 You can book online.