Abel Tasman Museum

Start your voyage of discovery at the one and only Abel Tasman Museum. This small museum introduces young and old to Abel Tasman; a farmer's son from Lutjegast who, thanks to his vast knowledge of sea areas, became commander of the expedition to find 'the great Southland'. In 1642-1643, Tasman put New Zealand, Tasmania and, in 1644, parts of northern Australia on the map. At the museum, you will join the expedition and learn more about the treasures the VOC wanted to trade in. Of course, your expedition also passes by the Tasman Sea, the sea by which Abel Tasman will forever be known everywhere. There is also plenty for children to discover. For instance, they can try out different musical instruments, imagine sailing on a ship for months or stroke a kiwi cuddly toy.

The museum's enthusiastic volunteers will be happy to tell you more about Abel Tasman's extraordinary adventures. Thanks to their stories, the paintings and objects around you come to life. For example, listen to stories about life on board the ship while looking at the scale model of the Heemskerck. One of the most impressive stories accompanies one of the most special items in the museum's collection: the large green jade stone found only in New Zealand. This stone is a reconciliation gift received in 2017 from descendants of the New Zealand Māori tribe that Tasman met in 1642. Tasman had the Māori's trumpet sound kindly answered by his ship's trumpeter, but that turned out to be a big misunderstanding. The Māori's shell trumpet signals were meant as a harsh warning that they were defending their people and land. A Dutch sloop with scouts was attacked and people were killed. Today, friendship ties with New Zealand and the Māori are very strong. The stone is a lasting symbol of this, with great spiritual significance. Place your hands on the stone and feel connected to those you think of.