So much to see and do...
The Bledisloe
Showing the progression of time, a series of colonial rooms from 1875 through to 1930 are full of fascinating items such as a working gramophone and early vacuum cleaner. Roll up your sleeves in the wash house and have a go at operating a mangle! Try using the earliest laundry equipment and washing machines, demonstrated by someone who remembers those days.
Exhibits show the history of innovative agricultural techniques in the Waikato, depicting the development of the electric fence, progression of peat land farming, shearing techniques, aerial top dressing and the evolution of forestry equipment.
Explore the restored heritage buildings in a peaceful lake setting. The schoolhouse, hospital, church, blacksmith and garage are authentically furnished, and kids especially love the 19th century jail! Pump petrol at the Clydesdale Garage, try out a 100 year old school desk, ring the school bell!
Dairy Museum
The new National Dairy Museum is now open, situated at the edge of the lake, overlooking the Heritage Village. The Museum showcases the fascinating history of dairy farming in New Zealand, from the arrival of the first cows to refrigerated shipping, transportation and more. The new larger National Dairy Museum offers new interactive features to bring history alive and is filled with fascinating artifacts such as early milking equipment, butter churners, and home separators.
Fire Museum
The Fire Museum includes a 1914 Dennis Fire Engine which began New Zealand service in Napier, and fought the Napier earthquake fires by pumping sea water. It has been restored with a Lotto grant and will be back on display towards the end of 2003. If you are interested in being involved with the restoration of classic fire equipment, you are welcome to contact the Curator
DC3
Climb aboard the DC3 top-dressing plane ‘Highland Duster’, which has spread fertilizer over 1,120,000 acres of land, and had a previous career in the Air Force, even carrying Royal baggage! For more information visit, www.dc3trust.co.nz or email info@dc3trust.co.nz
Make a Day of it
Ag Heritage has plenty of scenic spots for a picnic, so bring along your lunch and make a day of your visit.
