Rewi Alley Museum

The Rewi Alley Museum in Christchurch is dedicated to preserving and sharing the legacy of one of New Zealand’s most influential global citizens. Through immersive storytelling and multimedia installations, the museum highlights Alley’s humanitarian work, literary contributions, and lifelong relationship with China.

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The establishment of this Rewi Alley Museum is intended to let more people, especially the younger generation, learn about the story of Rewi Alley.

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"Who was he?"
"Why was he famous?"
"What did he do?"

We hope some answers can be found here.

 

He was one of the earliest builders of friendship between New Zealand and China, and won the respect of people from both countries. He was awarded the Queen's Service Order (QSO) by the New Zealand Government, honorary citizenship of Beijing and Gansu Province, and was recognized among the "Top Ten International Friends of China". He is remembered as an old and true friend of the Chinese people.

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The New Zealand-China relationship has since come a long way and continues to grow on the basis of mutual respect and mutual benefit. These achievements are inseparable from Rewi's lifelong dedication to friendship between Kiwis and Chinese and to building people-to-people relationships, which are vital for greater understanding between those of different cultures.

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Rewi Alley's journey - from his New Zealand roots to his remarkable achievements in China - reflects a life of humility, compassion, and dedication to education, friendship, and peace. His legacy endures as a symbol of understanding, friendship and cooperation between nations.

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The day to day operation at the Rewi Alley Museum in Christchurch is managed by New Zealand China Friendship Society Christchurch Branch through a number of staff and volunteers.  For more information on the New Zealand China Friendship Society, visit our website: nzchinasociety.org.nz