WWI exhibition seeks money for extension

Wellington’s Great War Exhibition could be extended if the Government gives the nod.

The $10 million World War I exhibition, which includes Sir Peter Jackson’s personal collection, was set to close after November 11, 2018. But, the National Military Heritage Charitable Trust Board hopes the popularity of exhibitions in the old Dominion Museum will see it get a reprieve.

General manager Dave Clearwater said an extension beyond 2018 was under consideration, although there had been no clear indication either way. It was up to the Ministry for Culture and Heritage, he said.

A ministry spokeswoman said, while the exhibition was popular, it was always viewed as running for the duration of the 100th anniversary of World War I and its immediate aftermath.

‘‘Any decision to extend the exhibition needs to be carefully considered and no decision has been made at this time.’’

Clearwater was hopeful of an extension but in the meantime it was ‘‘striving to produce a balanced set of books’’.

This would see the trust make changes to operations and look to attract more visitors.

The museum attracted 82,000 visitors in the last financial year but was still not making a profit. Daily visitor numbers dropped from about 500 to less than 300 when a $15 adult cover charge was introduced a year ago.

Meanwhile, Jackson’s Wingnut company is constructing the much-delayed Trench Experience exhibit. It was supposed to open in August 2015, but is now expected to open in August or September.