Historical Society

President: Dr C A Bebelman
Secretary: Kara Oosterman
Treasurer: Erwin de Raad
Email: PDHS@papakuramuseum.org.nz

 Please click here for recent newsletter articles.
Not yet available - link currently shows a sample document only

Aims and Objectives (in summary)

To collect, record and preserve the history of Papakura & District; of the families and individuals who were collectively the makers of that history; and of those who have come since and continue to add to the story. 

To encourage amongst the General Public an interest in local history and to make available through our Musuem and Archives the means to be informed and learn more of our history.

History of the Society

The Society was formed in 1961 and celebrates its 50th birthday in 2012.

1965 saw the beginning of regular members' bus trips which continue on a monthly basis today.

In 1972 the Society was given the use of two rooms in a house, formerly owned by the Cole family, on the corner of East Street and Coles Crescent - this became Papakura's first Museum.

Society members made the best use of available space to display the growing collection of artifacts.

In 1982 the opportunity arose to turn the old Papakura Fire Station into a new home for the Museum. The combined efforts of many members led to the opening of the new Museum on 27 November, 1982.

Standing in front of the Fire Station are three people whose contributions to the Society will long be remembered.

Between them they planned, constructed, and established the Papakura Museum at the old Fire Station, ably assisted by many willing volunteers.

Left to right: Ernest Clarke, founding President; Dora Hessell, former President and Secretary; and Lloyd Walker, former President and Treasurer.

In 1995 the Papakura District Council invited the Society to be part of a purpose built complex incorporating the Library, a Museum and the Educational Resource Centre. One thing led to another - the ASB Trust was asked to cover the substantial cost of setting up in a modern building and they did; the Lottery Board helped with funding and a wonderful team of volunteers packed eight thousand plus items. The relocation was completed and the Museum opened 31st August, 1999 on the 4th Floor of the Accent Point Building.

The saga doesn't quite end there and of course it is not an ending, just another beginning. As of 2nd October, 2010 the Museum re-opened in the same building, this time on the 3rd Floor with direct access at Great South Road level, and state-of-the-art premises which are a pleasure both to visit and to work in. ◙