Clapham’s National Clock Museum houses more than 1,400 antique, vintage, and working clocks from around the world — collected over a lifetime by Archibald Clapham and now managed by Whangarei District Council. The collection fills a dedicated building in the Town Basin waterfront precinct, and the combined tick and chime of hundreds of working timepieces makes it one of the more unusual sensory experiences in Northland.
Practical Information
| Location | Town Basin, Whangarei (Dent Street precinct) |
| Hours | 9am–4:30pm daily (closed 30 June for stocktake and Christmas Day) |
| Adults | $10 |
| Children (school age) | $4 |
| Senior / Students | $8 |
| Family (2 adults + up to 4 children) | $20 |
| Guided tours (pre-booked) | $15 per person |
| Parking | Town Basin paid parking nearby |
About the Museum
The collection spans an extraordinary range of timepieces — pocket watches, wall clocks, bracket clocks, grandfather clocks, automata, ship’s chronometers, novelty clocks, and rare antique pieces from Europe, Asia, and the Americas. Many are kept in working condition, which means the museum is never entirely quiet; the ticking is a constant backdrop, punctuated by chiming on the hour.
Archibald Clapham began collecting clocks in the early 20th century and dedicated much of his life to acquiring and restoring pieces from around the world. The collection he assembled is now recognised as nationally significant and is housed in purpose-built museum facilities at Town Basin. Whangarei District Council manages the museum and maintains the working pieces.
Guided tours are available for pre-booked groups and provide context on the rarer and more historically significant pieces in the collection. The museum is a short walk from the Whangārei Art Museum and the Hundertwasser Art Centre — all three sit within the Town Basin precinct and make a natural afternoon circuit.
What Visitors Say
TripAdvisor reviewers consistently describe it as a surprisingly engaging visit — particularly the experience of hearing so many working clocks ticking and chiming simultaneously. Visitors with an interest in history, mechanics, or antiques tend to find it absorbing; those expecting a brief look are often struck by the variety and scale of the collection. Staff are noted as helpful in pointing out the more unusual pieces.
Where to Learn More
Clapham’s National Clock Museum — claphamsclocks.com — the official site with full collection information, current opening hours, admission prices, and details on guided tour bookings.
Whangarei District Council — Clapham’s Museum — the council’s page for the museum with location information and operating details.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many clocks does Clapham’s National Clock Museum have?
More than 1,400 timepieces, including antique clocks, pocket watches, automata, and working pieces from around the world.
What are Clapham’s Clock Museum’s opening hours?
9am–4:30pm daily. Closed 30 June for annual stocktake and Christmas Day.
What does entry to Clapham’s Clock Museum cost?
Adults $10, school-age children $4, seniors and students $8, family (2 adults + up to 4 children) $20. Pre-booked guided tours are $15 per person.
Where is Clapham’s Clock Museum in Whangarei?
In the Town Basin waterfront precinct — within walking distance of the Whangārei Art Museum and the Hundertwasser Art Centre.
Can I book a guided tour at Clapham’s?
Yes — guided tours can be pre-booked and cost $15 per person. Contact the museum for availability.
Who was Archibald Clapham?
A Whangarei resident who spent his life collecting antique and unusual timepieces from around the world. His collection is now managed by Whangarei District Council as a nationally significant museum.
For more cultural attractions in the area, see the Historical and Cultural Sites hub. The Whangārei Art Museum is a short walk away and offers free entry.