Tauranga Historical Society

Inaugurated on 7 July 1951, the Tauranga Historical Society exists primarily to preserve, interpret and promote the historical and cultural heritage of the Western Bay of Plenty for the people of the region and beyond. The Society is responsible for the management, preservation and display of the Brain Watkins House Museum. Volunteers open the house to the public each Sunday afternoon from 2 to 4pm. Admission for public viewing is $5 (children are free). Private group tours can be arranged on request. There is a hall behind the house for hire that holds up to 25 people ($30 for half-days or $50 for full day). Yearly membership to the Tauranga Historical Society costs $40 per household, and includes a subscription to their magazine and an invitation to attend monthly meetings, listen to a variety of speakers, and network with other like-minded people.