Manutahi Museum - Taxidermy Museum

Visited on Weekend Wait time 1 hr+ Reservation recommended Yes More
Mar 28th, 2023

Incredible!! I only went because my husband was adamant. But, i concede i was wrong. John was so amazingly knowledgeable about all the animals he had, 90% of which i sadly didn't retain, just too much to absorb in one trip. Animals i will never get to see alive, presented in a way that honours their lives. Majority were not trophy kills. Wish i could give it more than 5 stars, huge collection of animals, mammals & sea creatures. After the very informative tour, i sat down to chat with John while hubby went back round with the camera. I asked some questions about taxidermy & was completely blown away with his responses! Just so completely different to what i had 'assumed' without stopping to think it thru. A must see, it really is, it truly is incredible
Jan 31st, 2023

What an incredible collection! Spent just over 2 hours here with John, he is passionate and his knowledge is mind blowing and infectious. Allow plenty of time to take it all in and be sure to take cash for entry. Absolutely the highlight activity of our weekend in the Taranaki. Thank you so much John, you're an absolute legend and we are excited to come back again soon!
Jan 20th, 2023

I enjoyed this visit more than the Auckland Museum! The amount of species on display is beyond incredible. The owner is extremely knowledgeable and had some amazing information to share. My partner and I thoroughly enjoyed the visit. You could walk around twice and still find new things to see. Make sure to take cash with you before you go. 10/10 we will definitely be back, add this stop to your trip.
Nov 22nd, 2022

One of NZ's greatest attractions!! Through the gate and behind the door of an innocuous looking shed is the most amazing collection of stuffed animals, and a man called John who will take all the time in the world to tell you about them and barely stop for a breath in the process. Short of a penguin, giraffe and elephant there wasn't much we couldn't see, and maybe that's just because the place is absolutely packed to the rafters. Well worth the visit: my girls loved it as much as I did. No EFTPOS as of April 22 so take some cash with you.
Jan 5th, 2022