Empowering the Next Generation: The Rotorua Museum Youth Group
Rotorua Museum
August 2025
Since its closure in late 2016 due to earthquake damage, Rotorua Museum Te Whare Taonga o Te Arawa has been undergoing a major restoration and strengthening project, alongside the development of innovative exhibitions in preparation for its reopening.
In 2023, the Museum introduced a new initiative: Te Pūkenga Taiohi o Te Whare Taonga o Te Arawa, the Rotorua Museum Youth Group. This programme was created to connect young people in the Rotorua district who share a passion for arts, museums, and history, and to support their growth in these areas. What began as a small group of ten students has grown into a vibrant, youth-led movement that is actively shaping the future of cultural engagement in the region.
.jpg)
Rotorua Museum Youth Group at Hell's Gate, 2024
A Foundation of Connection and Learning
The inaugural group focused on whanaungatanga—building relationships and connections. Through brainstorming sessions and shared experiences, the youth began to define their aspirations and roles within the museum.
A highlight of their journey was a tour of the Museum Pātaka (storage facility), where curators from fine arts, photography, social history, and taonga Māori introduced them to the treasures of the Museum and the intricate processes involved in preserving them for future generations.
%20(1).jpg)
Rotorua Museum Youth Group on a tour of the Museum Pātaka, 2025.
Expanding Horizons
By 2024, the group had grown to 22 members. Their activities expanded to include visits to iconic Rotorua tourism sites such as Hell’s Gate, Whakarewarewa – The Living Māori Village, and Waimangu Volcanic Valley. These excursions deepened their understanding of local stories and how tourism intersects with cultural heritage. For many, it was their first time visiting these places, and the experiences were both educational and inspiring.
.jpg)
Rotorua Museum Youth Group at Waimangu Volcanic Valley, 2024.
Giving Back
In 2025, the Youth Group shifted focus toward community engagement. Their flagship event, Youth Connecting Cultures, was a celebration of Rotorua’s rich cultural diversity. Held at Rotorua Library, Te Aka Mauri, and co-hosted with Multicultural Rotorua, the event featured performances, international cuisine, and an expo showcasing youth opportunities in the community.
The event was a resounding success. Attendees praised the vibrant atmosphere, delicious food, and engaging performances.
_JPG.jpg)
Performance at Youth Connecting Cultures, 2025.
Looking Ahead
As Rotorua Museum prepares to reopen in 2027 with new exhibitions, the Youth Group will continue to play an advisory role, contributing to the development of exhibitions and events. Their insights will help ensure that the Museum remains relevant and engaging for younger audiences.
Rotorua Museum Youth Group, 2025.
Why Youth Groups Matter in Cultural Institutions
The Rotorua Museum Youth Group is a powerful example of how youth engagement can enrich cultural institutions. Here are some key benefits of implementing similar programmes elsewhere:
1. Fostering Future Leaders
Youth groups cultivate leadership, communication, and critical thinking skills. Participants gain confidence and experience in public speaking, event planning, and cultural advocacy.
2. Building Community Connections
Youth involvement strengthens ties between institutions and their communities. Young people become ambassadors, sharing their experiences and encouraging others to engage with local heritage.
3. Enhancing Relevance
Youth perspectives help museums and cultural spaces stay relevant. Their input ensures exhibitions and events resonate with younger audiences, fostering lifelong interest in arts and history.
4. Promoting Diversity and Inclusion
Youth groups often reflect the diverse makeup of their communities. Their voices help shape inclusive programming that celebrates a wide range of cultures and experiences.
5. Encouraging Lifelong Engagement
Early exposure to museums and cultural institutions can spark a lifelong passion. Youth who feel valued and included are more likely to continue engaging with these spaces as adults.
Rotorua Museum Youth Group at Youth Connecting Cultures event, 2025.