Devonport, an historic maritime suburb of Auckland, New Zealand has had a long association with the Royal New Zealand Navy, and is the site of the naval base. It is fitting then that the Navy Museum is situated in the area, at Torpedo Bay at the foot of North Head, Devonport. It is housed in refurbished submarine mining station sheds that were built in the late 1800s.
Displays at the Navy Museum
Throughout New Zealand's history the Navy has played a vital role in the defence and development of the country. As well, it has participated in global wars and on overseas peacekeeping duties. The Navy Museum showcases this service with displays that are well thought out, carefully arranged, easily understood and informative.
The galleries at the Museum are arranged in chronological order, beginning with the Navy's role at the time of the British Empire and World War I, and ending with the work this branch of the Defence Forces does today.
World War II, wars in Asia, war in the nuclear age and the Navy's role in peace time, are each featured. Photographs, flags, models of ships, equipment, weapons and artefacts bring the galleries to life.
One display area is a moving memorial dedicated to the sailors who have died on service during war times.
Activities for Children at the Navy Museum
Modern museums encourage children's participation and provide things to do which spark their interest during a visit. The Navy Museum is no exception, offering a range of hands-on activities.
One room is set out as a mess deck on a ship. Here children can dress up in uniforms of officers and ratings, try out a bunk for size and learn, in a fun way, about life on the ocean waves.
Or perhaps they would like to get a treasure map and search the Museum for the 25 items indicated. If they can complete the quest their prize is a free pencil.
Older children could pretend they are spies and have a go at cracking a secret code. If they get it right, they can claim a lucky dip prize.
The Museum runs school holiday programs also which have proved popular with children. Details are on the Museum website.
About Devonport's Navy Museum
Entry to the waterfront Museum is free and it is open year-round, apart from Good Friday, Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
There is a cafe on site where you can enjoy a coffee or meal and take in the views of the busy Waitemata Harbour.
It is only a 10 minute flat walk from central Devonport along King Edward Parade to the Museum at Torpedo Bay. A visit can easily be incorporated into a day's outing to this historic suburb by the sea.
Wendy Craig - Wendy is a freelance writer whose work has appeared in newspapers, magazines, anthologies and travel books in New Zealand and U.K.
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