Have your say on Auckland War Memorial Museum's Draft Annual Plan 2026/27

Tāmaki Paenga Hira Auckland War Memorial Museum is inviting Aucklanders to have their say on its Draft Annual Plan for FY 2026/27, which outlines the Museum’s priorities for the year ahead as it works to restore long-term financial sustainability, progress essential building works, and strengthen the visitor experiences it offers.   

David Reeves, Auckland Museum Tumu Whakarae Chief Executive says, “The past eighteen months have brought real challenges, from building closures to lower visitation and a subdued economic environment. This plan is about focusing on what matters most: addressing critical infrastructure and building issues, planning for key gallery renewal, maintaining strict control of costs, and delivering compelling experiences that bring people through our doors and deepen connection with the collections and their stories.

The Draft Annual Plan signals a financially constrained year for the Museum, alongside a strong focus on core activity. It highlights four themes for 2026/27: 

• Advance the remediation of asbestos in Te Marae Ātea Māori Court and Pacific galleries, preparing these areas for infrastructure upgrades, while continuing to renew and upgrade the Museum’s ageing critical assets. Strengthen the Museum’s financial position by reducing deficits, avoiding debt, maintaining strict control of costs, and maximising revenue generation. 

• Enhance visitor experiences through compelling permanent and touring exhibitions, engaging public programmes, war memorial and education initiatives, with the goal of increasing visitation and reaching broader, more diverse audiences. 

• Prioritise resources to focus on core museological activities – exhibitions and public programming, collection care, education, research and applying appropriate cultural practice – while recognising that not all activities can be sustained. 

 Auckland War Memorial Museum Trust Board Chair Rachael Tuwhangai says the plan reflects the Museum’s responsibility to care for taonga, protect the building, and serve Aucklanders now and into the future. 

“This is the final year of the current multi-year funding agreement with Auckland Council. We are grateful for the support that enables the Museum to operate as Auckland’s war memorial and one of the region’s most significant cultural and educational institutions,” says Tuwhangai. 

“At the same time, we are clear that the Museum’s long-term sustainability depends on addressing ageing infrastructure and asbestos remediation. This Draft Annual Plan sets out a practical, focused year of work to protect what Aucklanders value most about their Museum, while laying the groundwork for recovery and renewal.” 

Aucklanders are encouraged to have their say on the Museum’s Draft Annual Plan which can be found on its website. People can choose to either fill in an online form or make a full written submission. 

All submissions must be received by 12 February 2026. Those who make a submission are invited to be heard in relation to that submission on 26 February 2026 at Auckland Museum.  

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