Last updated June 2026
TATATM (Taranaki Aviation Transport and Technology Museum) is a volunteer-run museum on the southern outskirts of New Plymouth that preserves Taranaki’s industrial and technological past through hands-on exhibits. Located at 13 Kent Road opposite Lake Mangamahoe, it features working displays of early communications, printing, agriculture, transport and aviation. The museum operates on weekends and public holidays with modest entry fees that support its upkeep. Visitors can operate a telephone exchange, explore farm machinery and view a Harvard aircraft among many other restored items.
Practical Information
| Location | 13 Kent Road, New Plymouth 4371 (corner of SH3 South and Kent Road, opposite Lake Mangamahoe) |
| Opening Hours | 10am–4pm Saturdays, Sundays, school and public holidays; other times by arrangement |
| Entry Fees | Adults $7, children (under 15) $2, family $16 (two adults and small children); group discounts available |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair accessible |
| Contact | Phone 06 752 2845; website tatatm.co.nz |
| Parking | Available on site, including for motorhomes |
About TATATM
TATATM is a not-for-profit museum managed by volunteers dedicated to preserving Taranaki’s technological and industrial heritage. It houses a wide range of working and interactive exhibits that allow visitors to engage directly with historical equipment and processes.
The collection spans aviation, transport, communications, printing, agriculture and domestic technology. Highlights include a Harvard aircraft, farm machinery such as threshing machines and milk pumps, a working telephone exchange, early radios, a Lamson wire carrier system, hot-lead typesetting equipment and a large scale model of the Motunui gas-to-methanol plant.
Additional displays cover Port Taranaki development, fire engines, cars and trucks, cinematographic items and post office equipment. The museum’s roadside location makes it a convenient stop for travellers exploring the region.
Exhibits and Interactive Displays
Many exhibits are in full working order and designed for hands-on interaction. Visitors can manually transfer calls on the telephone exchange, experience early radio and recording techniques, follow the evolution of computers and communications, operate a Lamson wire monetary transfer system, try hot-lead typesetting and printing, and study agricultural heritage items from threshing machines to milk pumps.
Other notable items include a scale model of Taranaki’s gas-to-methanol plant, displays on Port Taranaki, a Harvard aircraft, cars, trucks, farm machinery, a fire engine and tender, radios, telephones and printing industry machinery. The interactive nature of the displays appeals to families and enthusiasts alike.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors appreciate the hands-on working exhibits and the opportunity to try out historical equipment like the telephone exchange and printing press. Many note the friendly volunteer staff and the museum’s compact yet varied collection that appeals to all ages.
Reviewers often describe it as an interesting roadside stop with authentic local history, praising the interactive elements and the chance to see restored aircraft and farm machinery up close. Some mention it is best suited for those with an interest in technology and transport.
Where to Learn More
TATATM official website: Details on exhibits, opening hours, entry fees and contact information.
Taranaki tourism listing: Official regional information including address, hours and overview.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is TATATM located?
TATATM is at 13 Kent Road, New Plymouth, on the corner of State Highway 3 South and Kent Road, opposite Lake Mangamahoe.
What are the opening hours?
The museum is open 10am to 4pm on Saturdays, Sundays, school holidays and public holidays. Other times are available by arrangement.
How much does entry cost?
Entry fees are $7 for adults, $2 for children under 15, and $16 for a family of two adults and small children, with discounts for groups.
Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
Yes, TATATM is wheelchair accessible.
What kinds of exhibits are on display?
Exhibits include a Harvard aircraft, farm machinery, working telephone exchanges, early radios, printing equipment, post office items, cars, trucks and a scale model of the Motunui plant.
Is it suitable for families?
Yes, the interactive and hands-on displays make it engaging for visitors of all ages, including families.
Are there parking facilities?
Yes, parking is available on site, including space for motorhomes.
Is the museum volunteer-run?
Yes, TATATM is operated by volunteers as a not-for-profit organisation preserving Taranaki’s heritage.
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