WHALING MUSEUM, 1840’s HOUSE AND GARDENS, BUTLER POINT

Captain William Butler (1814 – 1875), an English whaler, settled here in 1839 and established a trading post for American and European whalers. The Museum displays a restored and fully equipped whaleboat and a comprehensive collection of whaling artifacts.

The Butler Homestead is recognized by the NZ Historic Places Trust. Extensive grounds include a certified Garden of Significance and notable trees, including a pohutukawa tree approaching 1,000 years old.

The Moehuri Pa site has been archaeologically investigated, and interpretative signs are provided.

Notes:

Butler Point is open strictly by appointment only. A charge applies. Phone 0800 MUSEUM.

To get there: Take State Highway 10 for 6kms south of Mangonui and turn left on Hihi Road. Follow the signs to Butler Point turnoff (6km down Hihi Road on your left at the roundabout).