2 Jul 2012

Kaumatua happy with museum rebranding

6:44 am on 2 July 2012

A kaumatua involved in the re-branding of the redeveloped Otago Settlers Museum says he's no longer against the new name - and says the council has done a good job.

Huata Holmes had previously objected to the use of the word "toitu" being put either before or above the main title of the museum.

But he now says he has no concerns, adding there was miscommunication between Dunedin City Council and his Maori advisory group.

Toitu was gifted to the museum by the Ngai Tahu advisory group, Te Pae O Mahutonga, and translates as inviolate, or to be preserved forever.

Mr Holmes says he was troubled by the use of the word toitu, believing it would detract from the original name of the building - but he's now comfortable with the council's decision.

Mr Holmes says he's looking forward to the opening of the museum towards the end of the year.