The Alexander Heritage & Research Library — known in te reo Māori as Te Rerenga Mai o Te Kāuru — is a specialist research library in Pukenamu Queen’s Park, Whanganui, dedicated to local history, genealogy, and community archives. It sits within the same Queens Park precinct as the main Davis Library building but operates as a distinct collection focused on the Whanganui region. If you’re researching family connections, local events, or regional history, this is the place to start.
Practical Information
| Address | 2 Pukenamu Drive, Pukenamu Queen’s Park, Whanganui |
| Hours | Monday–Friday 9:30am–5pm (closed weekends) |
| Cost | Free to visit and use |
| Phone | 06 349 1000 |
| he******@**************ry.com | |
| Parking | Street parking on Pukenamu Drive; Queens Park carpark nearby |
About the Alexander Heritage & Research Library
The Alexander Heritage & Research Library holds one of the most comprehensive collections of Whanganui regional material in New Zealand. The collection spans books, newspapers, photographs, pamphlets, maps, and other published material relating to Whanganui people, organisations, and events — built up over many decades and continually added to.
The library provides free access to two major genealogy databases: Ancestry Library and Find My Past. Both are subscription platforms that normally require a paid account — visiting the Alexander Library gives you access at no cost on the library’s terminals. Staff with expertise in local history and genealogy are available to assist with research queries.
Military archives form a notable part of the collection, with records and material relating to Whanganui residents who served in various conflicts. Local newspaper archives, historical maps of the district, and photographic collections round out the research resources available.
The building itself is part of the historic Queens Park precinct. The library was known simply as the Alexander Library for much of its history before being renamed to reflect its heritage and research focus. It operates under the umbrella of the Whanganui District Library but with a distinct specialist collection and staff.
Where to Learn More
Whanganui District Library — Heritage & Whakapapa — details on genealogy resources, Ancestry Library and Find My Past access, military archives, and how to contact the heritage team for research assistance.
Whanganui District Council — Libraries — overview of the full library network including the Alexander Heritage & Research Library and its role in the community.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Alexander Heritage & Research Library?
It’s a specialist public library in Queens Park, Whanganui, focused on local history, genealogy, and community archives for the Whanganui region. It’s part of the Whanganui District Library network.
Is the Alexander Heritage Library free to use?
Yes — entry and use of the collections is free. Genealogy database access (Ancestry Library and Find My Past) is also free on-site.
What are the Alexander Heritage Library’s opening hours?
Monday to Friday 9:30am–5pm. The library is closed on weekends.
Can I access Ancestry or Find My Past at the Alexander Heritage Library?
Yes — both Ancestry Library and Find My Past are available on library terminals at no charge during opening hours.
Does the Alexander Heritage Library hold military records?
Yes — the library holds local military archives with records relating to Whanganui residents who served in various conflicts.
What is Te Rerenga Mai o Te Kāuru?
This is the te reo Māori name for the Alexander Heritage & Research Library. Te Rerenga Mai o Te Kāuru reflects the library’s role as a gathering place for knowledge and community heritage.
Where is the Alexander Heritage Library located?
It’s in Pukenamu Queen’s Park, Whanganui — within the same precinct as the main Davis Library building.
For more historical and cultural sites in Whanganui, see the guide to Historical and Cultural Sites in Whanganui. The main Whanganui District Library (Davis Library), just steps away in Queens Park, is open seven days and holds the full general lending collection.