Donations both big and small key to museum’s future
The doors of The NZ Liberation Museum – Te Arawhata would not have opened a year ago if it wasn’t for generous donations from donors.
As a charitable project, the development of the $15 million museum was funded entirely by supporters’ donations – both big and small.
As Te Arawhata approaches its first-year anniversary on October 11, the museum is well into its next development phase with a focus on making it a must-visit destination in Europe. Ongoing donations are essential to ensuring the museum’s financial sustainability.
Sir Don McKinnon, former Chair of the New Zealand Memorial Museum Trust, says it is a remarkable achievement that the museum is coming up to its first anniversary.
“Never underestimate what individuals can do when they truly believe it’s the right thing to do. I say thanks to those who persevered against all the odds – fighting through a pandemic, much negativity, and calls for the ‘government to do it’.
“I wish a happy first anniversary to all the supporters and the team at the museum – it is a special place that honours those Kiwis who answered the call to fight for the allies in World War One.”
Donors from all walks of life
Fundraiser Jenni Giblin says the many donors, including foundation partners the Lindsay Foundation (Brendan and Jo Lindsay) and the late Richard Izard, have given to the project for a wide variety of reasons.
“Some have had a direct family connection to the liberation of Le Quesnoy, or a family connection to World War One. Many felt strongly that these brave men should be recognised for the enormous role they played for freedom and that future generations should know about the sacrifices they made.
“Others have a connection to France in some way, and many people love the story of New Zealand soldiers from the end of the world using kiwi ingenuity by climbing the walls of Le Quesnoy to save this little town without any French civilian lives being lost.”
She believes one constant is that all donors have an emotional connection to the project.
“We have an outstanding group of donors who have not only given financially but who have also become ambassadors for the project, encouraged others to donate, and spread the word about the project.
“Their energy and commitment has been unwavering and we are so fortunate to have had their enthusiasm and encouragement along the way.”
Emotional visits
Since the museum has been open, a large number of donors have visited Te Arawhata and made their own personal connection with the museum and the people of Le Quesnoy.
Brendan Lindsay was moved when he visited Te Arawhata.
He told the New Zealand Herald in a recent interview that the museum helps to fulfil his and wife Jo’s dream of a legacy for future generations.
“Particularly our children and grandchildren. I don’t think there’s anybody in New Zealand that hasn’t been touched by war, whether it be the First, Second, Vietnam or whatever war.
“The whole thing is about remembrance and not forgetting,” he said.
With no government support to date, fundraising continues. Donating to the museum is a way for Kiwis to be part of an incredibly special place that is built on freedom, friendship, and the future.
Te Arawhata is located in a renovated mansion house which was the former World War One home of the Le Quesnoy mayor and later the headquarters of the local Gendarmerie (French Police).
The NZMMT purchased the building in 2017. Renovations were completed in 2023 with the museum and Wētā Workshop’s visitor experience opening on October 11, 2023.
Go to nzliberationmuseum.com to donate.