Part of Te Papa’s national collection could be shifted to Dunedin as part of the redevelopment of the southern city’s waterfront, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says.
Ms Ardern said in Dunedin yesterday she wanted to encourage the idea, which had already been floated in talks between staff at the Dunedin City Council and Te Papa.
Ms Ardern, who is also the Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage, viewed Damien van Brandenburg’s concept model for the redevelopment of the Dunedin waterfront at Toitu Otago Settlers Museum yesterday, and liked what she saw.
Asked how the Government could help support the project, Ms Ardern said shifting part of the national collection to Dunedin "was what first came to mind".
"That’s why I’d like to touch base with Te Papa to see what conversations have happened there, and any barriers there might be," she said.
DCC chief executive Sue Bidrose confirmed "exploratory conversations" with Te Papa began last week and would continue. Te Papa staff were interested in the idea, and "I’m sure further conversations will be held", she said.
If confirmed, the items could be displayed in the cockleshell-shaped cultural centre, which Dunedin businessman Ian Taylor has previously suggested could become "the Ralph Hotere" centre.
Dr Bidrose would not be drawn on other details yet, but said the talks were just part of wider interest in the city’s waterfront plan.‘‘It really is a very positive thing for the future of Dunedin.
"What was nice was to see her [Ms Ardern’s] enthusiasm matched our own."
Ms Ardern said the Government could also consider a financial contribution to help support redevelopment initiatives, either from its $1billion regional economic development fund or another source.
"I think it would be worth Dunedin putting forward what its suggestions are and giving us a chance to take a look."
