Te Papa to remain closed today

Te Papa will not open today until a structural engineering assessment on the safety of the building is completed.

Chief Executive Michael Houlihan says a structural engineering assessment is being carried out to make absolutely certain that the building is safe for visitors and staff.

“We are really sorry that this may inconvenience people particularly as it’s the school holidays however the safety of our visitors has to be paramount.

“I am pleased to report that there is only superficial damage at Te Papa. Some glassware fell off shelves in the Te Papa Store and some museum exhibits moved out of place.

“For example in the Slice of Heaven exhibit, a rugby ball fell off its mount, some props in Golden Days fell over and one of Phar Lap’s back legs moved slightly out of position,” said Michael Houlihan.

Collection managers are currently assessing stores and displays. However the priority is to get Te Papa open to the public as soon as possible.

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