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Fully Certified
Firth Tower Museum and Reserve
General Information
266a Tower Road, Matamata 3471
07 888 8369
Opening Times - Check before visiting as might change
Historic buildings open: Thursday to Monday 10am-4pm. Tuesday & Wednesday - Closed.
Closed on public holidays.
Overview
"One of New Zealand's largest farming museums.
Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of our gardens, wide lawns and shady trees. Take a stroll or picnic under the venerable oaks. Learn something of life in a more leisured age through our museum displays housed in 13 buildings.
The Firth Tower was built in 1882 by Josiah Clifton Firth to provide a lookout over the country side. It was also used as the estate office and sleeping quarters for single men. The tower stands on rising ground commanding an extensive view of the surrounding country. The Firth Tower Historical Reserve is administered by the Matamata-Piako District Council and museum exhibits and displays are the work of the Matamata Historical Society. The Heritage Centre houses the archives of the Matamata area."
Museum Admission:
Adults $10.00
Child (5-16) $5.00
Senior $5.00
Further accessibility information available at:
https://www.firthtower.co.nz/accessibility
Notes for Cardholders
Free essential companion (+1) entry is available. In order to book this please give us a call on 07 888 8369.
3D tours of the Firth Tower Museum and Reserve buildings and exhibition are available at:
https://www.firthtower.co.nz/exhibits
Standing and Queuing
Please make yourself known to the staff. We will ask you to take a seat, and we will serve you there.
Level Access
Most of our building have access through certain entrances. Some of the heritage building is inaccessible to wheelchair users.
Distances
Our site is large, however, there is plenty of seating throughout that you are welcome to use. We do not have any wheelchairs available.
Urgent Toilet Access
We have toilets, including accessible toilets, within our carpark. Our site, however, is quite large.
Disability Assist Dogs
We comply with the NZ law with respect to Disability Assistance Dogs. The staff will offer you water for your dog and will indicate the nearest place for the dog to relieve itself.
Essential Companions
For cardholders with this icon we are happy to offer a free companion ticket. In order to book this please give us a call on 07 888 8369.
Difficulty Accessing Visual Information
Through the training, the staff are well-informed about adapting their communication and assisting individuals who are blind or have low vision. They can assist you to a seat and guide you to a toilet if required.
Difficulty Accessing Audible Information
Through the training that the staff have done with the Hāpai Access Card, they are aware of how they can modify how they communicate with you. This includes making sure you can see their face when speaking, speaking clearly, use of pen and paper and being patient. The staff are aware of the NZ Relay service, so please use this if you think it appropriate when ringing if needed.
Hidden Disabilities
Through the staff's training, they are generally aware of hidden disabilities. Please speak to them about how they can assist in making your time with us extraordinary.
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