Rotorua's Essential 50: Day 13 - Rotorua Museum

There's surely going to be a rainy day or two this summer, so head to Rotorua Museum for some fun and inspiration indoors.

There's plenty on offer to visitors of all ages at the Rotorua Museum, the best part is that entry is free to locals with identification.

There's some great exhibitions running through the summer months including Sounds like Us - celebrating more than 100 years since radio signals were first broadcast in New Zealand.

A Labyrinth of Patterns is a fun, hands-on exploration of patterns, while Down the Hall on a Saturday Night celebrates five halls in the volcanic "pumice lands" to the south of the Rotorua district.

Matatoki - Contemporary Maori Carving brings together the work of some of the very best internationally-recognised contemporary Maori carvers in New Zealand and Carved Canvas explores the work of both Maori and European artists.

There are also a number of permanent exhibitions where people can discover the great stories of the Rotorua region through their innovative exhibitions and cinema experiences.

Taking the Cure tells the story of the Rotorua Bath House - once known as the Great South Seas Spa.

Nga Pumanawa o Te Arawa follows the people of Te Arawa, the original inhabitants of the Rotorua district, from their ancient homeland of Hawaiki to modern day Rotorua.

Tarawera - Te Maunga Tapu tells the tale of one of New Zealand's worst natural disasters when Mt Tarawera erupted on June 10 1886.

Maori Battalion lets people share the passion and feel the pride of B Company 28 Maori Battalion and their legendary exploits in Greece, Crete, North Africa and Italy during World War II.

The museum is open daily, except Christmas Day, from 9am to 6pm until the end of February when it will close again at 5pm.

The Rotorua Daily Post Essential 50 lists the city's must-see, must-do and must-try activities and experiences thanks to reader nominations. We'll highlight one every day over summer.