Q&A with Kevin Wasley

The Elvis Presley Museum

Kevin Wasley’s extraordinary private Elvis Presley museum in Hāwera is a treasure trove of all things Elvis – from records, souvenirs and clothing to dolls, toys and photographs galore.

Kevin Wasley ALL IMAGES: © Kevin Wasley

When did your fascination with Elvis start?

My fascination of Elvis started in 1959 when I was 13 years of age. My interest is of the 1950s and 1960s Elvis. I was mainly interested in his music, the style of clothes Elvis wore and his hair style. I still wear side burns, nearly 60 years later.

How did you find most of your collection?

I originally got my block & chisel out and wrote to people all around the world – no computers back in those days. I ordered from places in the USA, England, Denmark, South Africa, New Zealand, Australia and also having a pen pal in Memphis added to my collection.

Where can people find you and what can they expect to see?

My museum is at 51 Argyle St in Hāwera and people need to phone 0274 982 942 or email elvisroom@xtra.co.nz to arrange an appointment – so I can come home from work to welcome people. My collection contains 78’s, 45’s, 10”, 33’s, cassettes, 8 tracks, reel-to-reels as well as a multitude of memorabilia and souvenirs.