Waikato Artillery Museum
About This Museum
Tucked away in the Waikato countryside, this museum grew from a passionate private collection into a proper home for New Zealand's military artillery history. You'll find it's not a stuffy, silent hall but a place filled with stories, where volunteers who genuinely care about the subject are often on hand. The sheer scale of some of these machines, parked on grass and under cover, is genuinely impressive. It feels more like discovering a hidden trove of history than walking through a formal institution.
Collection Highlights
Don't miss the massive 5.5-inch medium gun, a workhorse of the Royal New Zealand Artillery, or get up close to the L5 Pack Howitzer that was designed to be broken down and transported by air. The collection spans from World War I right through to more recent conflicts, with many of the pieces restored to incredible condition.
Visitor Information
It's located just off Tauhei Road—look for the guns out front! Given its rural setting and volunteer-run nature, it's absolutely essential to check their Facebook page or give them a call ahead of your visit to confirm they're open.
Architecture & Building
The museum is primarily housed in a large, functional steel shed typical of a rural New Zealand farm, which suits the rugged machinery perfectly. This no-frills approach keeps the focus squarely on the impressive collection itself.
Contact & Location
Address: 502, Tauhei Road, Matamata Piako District, Waikato, 3375, New Zealand / Aotearoa
Phone: +64 210 752 885
