New Zealand Olympic Museum facts for kids
Exterior of former New Zealand Olympic Museum building
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| Established | 1998-2013 |
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| Location | Wellington, New Zealand (closed) |
The New Zealand Olympic Museum was a special place that celebrated New Zealand's journey in the Olympic Games. It was located in Wellington, New Zealand's capital city.
The museum opened its doors on June 23, 1998. It closed in January 2013. This happened after the New Zealand Olympic Committee (NZOC) moved its main office to Auckland. The museum's goal was to show off New Zealand's part in the Olympic movement. It also aimed to share the important ideas and values of the Olympics, like friendship and respect. The NZOC plans to bring the museum's collection back to life. They will do this through online activities and by sharing items with other museums.
Amazing Collections
The museum had many interesting items on display. These items told the story of New Zealand's Olympic history.
The Lonsdale Cup
One special item always on show was the Lonsdale Cup (NZOC). This cup is a very important award. It is given to the New Zealand athlete or team that achieves the most outstanding performance or contribution to sport each year. It shows who has been the best in New Zealand sports.
The Te Mahutonga Cloak
Another unique item was the Te Mahutonga Cloak. This beautiful cloak is very special. It travels with the New Zealand Olympic team to the Games. It is a symbol of national pride and support for the athletes. When it was not at the Olympics, it was proudly displayed at the museum.
Te Kohatu Mauri Stone
On Olympic Day, June 23, 2004, a special gift was given to the New Zealand Olympic Committee. Te Runanga O Ngai Tahu, a Māori tribe, presented two important taonga (treasures). One was a pendant that would go with the Te Mahutonga Cloak. The other was a Māori touchstone called the Te Kohatu Mauri Stone.
The Te Kohatu Mauri Stone is a pounamu (greenstone) touchstone. It is based on a special idea: every person who sees or touches it passes on their life-force, or mauri. This means they share their energy and good wishes with the athletes competing in the Olympic Games. The stone travels with the New Zealand Olympic Team to all future Games. It helps connect everyone in New Zealand with their athletes.
