Upper Waitaki Pioneer Museum & Art Gallery

Do call in to the Museum and Information Centre along the main street in Kurow.

It's amazing to see the artefacts from local pioneering and Maori connections from around the the area and the history behind them. The displays are well thought out and have been regularly updated. Often items are donated by local families who still retain strong ties to the area and community.

Did you know that Kurow is the forerunner for the World's Social Welfare system ? - originally developed to help workers from the massive hydro dam projects carried out at Waitaki, Benmore and Avimore.

Not only is there history on view, but often art exhibitions including a stunning collection of recent pieces by well known kiwi high-country artist Norman Sinclair. His work offers a no frills view of simple farming life and it's characters - beautifully and elegantly executed in water colours.

Staff at the information desk offer a wealth of information on the surrounding area and it's amenities with charm and enthusiasm - if you need to know something, chances are they'll be able to help.

Well done Kurow ! (Date of experience: Jun, 2011 )