Thousands Experience Thrills at Rescue Exhibition in New Plymouth

The Puke Ariki Museum in New Plymouth has attracted thousands of visitors to its latest interactive exhibition, Rescue, which opened on November 15. The exhibit offers a hands-on experience where children and their families can engage with various activities designed to highlight the crucial skills involved in rescue operations on land, at sea, and in the air.

Visitors to the exhibition have the unique opportunity to pilot a helicopter during simulated search-and-rescue missions, navigate jet skis through challenging obstacles, and crawl through a smoke-filled room, all while learning about the technology and teamwork that underpin emergency responses. According to Frith Williams, the museum manager, the exhibition aims to foster an interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) while preparing young attendees for real-world scenarios.

Significant Attendance Numbers Highlight Popularity

Since its opening, the Rescue exhibition has drawn nearly 13,000 visitors, with attendance surging in recent weeks. The most significant turnout occurred on December 23, when approximately 835 people visited the museum on a single day, leading to long lines extending throughout the venue.

Williams noted that even with the museum closed for two days over the Christmas and Boxing Day holidays, more than 2,770 visitors attended the exhibition during that week, marking it as the busiest week since its launch. On December 29, the museum welcomed an additional 1,600 visitors, further underscoring the exhibition’s popularity.

The Rescue exhibition is open to the public until April 19, providing ample time for those interested to explore its immersive activities and educational opportunities. Williams emphasized that the exhibit not only entertains but also inspires children to dream of heroic deeds and cultivate curiosity about the science behind survival.

As families continue to flock to the Puke Ariki Museum, the Rescue exhibition serves as a reminder of the importance of teamwork and preparedness in emergency situations, making it a valuable educational resource for the community.