Look back and learn

MAVTECH

Otherwise known as the Movie and Audio Museum, MAVtech offers more than a century's worth of audio-visual equipment, large and small, crammed into what was the stalls of Foxton's Coronation Hall. The museum displays a vast selection of equipment from the world of film and radio. Pandemic permitting, the upper section of Coronation Hall still operates as a cinema with a classic film projected at 7pm on the last Friday of every month. Entry to the museum is by donation; and movie tickets are $10. The building also houses Radio Foxton 105.4FM, which broadcasts

24/7. Coronation Hall, Avenue Road, Foxton. (06) 363 5910, foxton.org.nz/localattractions

HUNTERVILLE & DISTRICT SETTLERS MUSEUM

In the old Hunterville Court House, this museum offers a glimpse of what life was like in this area for pioneer farmers and other settlers. It's only open on Friday between 2pm and 4pm but ask for the key next door at Relish Rangitīkei. Drop a gold coin in the box inside the museum's front door. Milne Street (SH1), Hunterville. (06) 322 8063.

MARTON HISTORIC VILLAGE

Three buildings have been converted into a definitive collection from the town's early days — so vivid, it's like stepping into a Victorian's bedroom. The pioneer cottage shows how locals lived in the 1800s; an old jail block now exhibits clothes, millinery and hardware; and a restored furniture factory has been redone as a barn, full of tools, schoolroom paraphernalia, and many other relics. Regular open days are held, but the village can open by appointment. 397 Wellington Road, Marton. (06) 327 6689.