The Okains Bay Museum, located in the quiet village of Okains Bay on Banks Peninsula, offers a fascinating glimpse into New Zealand’s early history. Established in 1977, this museum holds one of the country's most extensive collections of Māori and colonial artifacts. It showcases the rich cultural history of the area, particularly focusing on Māori taonga (treasures), including intricately carved wakas (canoes), traditional tools, and clothing.

The museum also delves into European settler history with displays of early farming tools, colonial-era buildings, and everyday items used by early settlers. A highlight is its working blacksmith forge, which demonstrates how early settlers used to work with metal. The museum’s heritage collection is well-preserved, and visitors can experience life as it was through interactive exhibits, including historical machinery, restored vehicles, and agricultural equipment.

Each year, the museum plays a central role in Okains Bay's Waitangi Day celebrations, showcasing waka launches and cultural performances. It's an ideal destination for those interested in New Zealand’s bicultural heritage and rural history, offering a deep, tangible connection to the past within a picturesque coastal setting.

The museum provides an enriching, hands-on experience perfect for history enthusiasts, families, and travelers alike.