Precinct Activities

The Hokonui Moonshine Museum

The Hokonui Moonshine Museum is a visitor attraction celebrating the history of illicit whisky making in the southern region. "Hokonui" or "Hokonui Moonshine" had its origins in the Highlands of Scotland, but made its presence felt in the Gore district with the advent of localised Prohibition in 1902. 51 years of subsequent "drought" gave rise to an illicit moonshining tradition, and over 30 resulting prosecutions. The museum explores this colourful history through recreations, audio-visuals and original artefacts.

The Gore Historical Museum

The Gore Historical Museum celebrates Gore's social history with a variety of displays and special collections. A wide range of items and information cover the arrival of southern Maori, early European settlers, and the resulting enterprise that made the district unique. "Hook, Line & Sinker" is the Museum's celebration of Trout fishing, while "The Genge Costume Gallery" features a range of colonial costume and adornments. An added service to those with a hands-on interest in local history is The Hokonui Heritage Research Centre: a facility with resources designed for those wishing to undertake local history or genealogical research.

The Eastern Southland Gallery

Nic-named the 'Goreggenheim' by Saatchi & Saatchi boss Kevin Roberts, this regional public art museum features permanent exhibitions of national and international note:

The John Money Collection: is a large body of New Zealand, Australian, African and American works of art, amassed over 50 years by Baltimore based expatriate NZ academic Dr John Money, and gifted to the Gallery in 2003. Key items include paintings by Rita Angus and Theo Schoon (NZ), Lowell Nesbitt (USA), Bambarra, Dogon and Baga carvings from West Africa, and paintings and carvings from Elcho Island (Aust).

The Ralph Hotere Gallery: contains graphic works and paintings by major NZ contemporary artist Ralph Hotere. With one of the largest Hotere collections in the country, the gallery offers a programme of rotational exhibitions.

Two exhibition galleries offering a range of temporary solo, touring, and group exhibitions - plus a range of performances, workshops and artist projects.