In 1995 the wharenui Mataatua was returned to Ngati Awa. At the time Otago Museum, in a partnership with the Papatipu Runanga and associated Nga Tahu communities of the Arai Te Uru district supported by the Ngai Tahu Development Corporation, expressed a commitment to work positively together to determine and develop an appropriate replacement. Te Matapihi was the outcome of these discussions.

Vision

Te MATAPIHI will be a credible statement by Ngai Tahu of who and what we are, and have been

Te MATAPIHI will provide a credible point of reference for Ngai Tahu exploring Ngai Tahu culture a credible point of reference for others looking to engage with Ngai Tahu and Ngai Tahu cultural heritage

Te MATAPIHI will be a reflection of the mana of the taonga and Ngai Tahu’s relationship to the taonga

Te MATAPIHI will be an engaging, high quality visitor experience and a resource based centre of Ngai Tahu cultural heritage that treasures the past, enriches the present and inspires the future

Te MATAPIHI will excite, inform, stimulate and motivate

Te Matapihi is a truly collaborative project and is being developed through regular hui at local Marae. At project hui local Ngai Tahu Whanui and Museum Staff work together to develop and steer the project in the right direction. Te Matapihi is planned to be opening in late 2006 and will be permanently housed in the Museum's 1877 Gallery.