Te Ana Māori Rock Art Centre
Landing Services Building
2 George St, Timaru
You can take a look around the space by yourself and study their exhibits, or join a personalised tour with a guide around the centre for an hour. teana.co.nz/our-tours
They run guided tours out to rock art sites to help you explore Aotearoa / New Zealand’s first art galleries. Hundreds of years ago, people painted on the walls and ceilings of limestone caves. The tour follows Maori ancestors' footsteps, shares their stories, so you can immerse yourself in local Ngāi Tahu culture.
Ngāi Tahu are the indigenous people of Te Waipounamu (the South Island of New Zealand), descended from Waitaha, Ngāti Mamoe, and Ngāi Tahu ancestors. Te Ana is a non-profit organization that protects and preserves Māori rock art on behalf of Ngāi Tahu. Rock art in New Zealand, mainly found in limestone areas of North Otago and South Canterbury, is made with long-lasting natural pigments but is still vulnerable to environmental damage and human interference. Te Ana raises awareness and funds through tours to safeguard this cultural legacy for future generations.
"Mō tātou, ā, mō kā uri ā muri ake nei. For us, and our children after us" - Te Ana
Ngāi Tahu are the indigenous people of Te Waipounamu (the South Island of New Zealand), descended from Waitaha, Ngāti Mamoe, and Ngāi Tahu ancestors. Te Ana is a non-profit organization that protects and preserves Māori rock art on behalf of Ngāi Tahu. Rock art in New Zealand, mainly found in limestone areas of North Otago and South Canterbury, is made with long-lasting natural pigments but is still vulnerable to environmental damage and human interference. Te Ana raises awareness and funds through tours to safeguard this cultural legacy for future generations. "Mō tātou, ā, mō kā uri ā muri ake nei. For us, and our children after us" - Te Ana
The musuem was designed by mana whenua, Te Ana features recreated shelters, digital displays, and interactive storytelling. It connects ancient art with living culture and helps visitors understand the meaning and context of what they’ll find in the landscape. Te Ana gives you the background to appreciate the drawings in their original settings. It’s also ideal for families, schools, and visitors keen to explore our local history with meaning.
Location: Te Ana Māori Rock Art Centre is inside, Civic Trust's Landing Service Building. 2 George Street, Timaru. www.teana.co.nz Get Directions - Google Map