10/02/2026
A Legend’s Legacy: “Out in the Field” is Now Open
Peter Bush (1930–2023) was more than a photographer; he was a witness to our history. With a career spanning from the 1940s to the 2020s, he had an insatiable drive to record the world. Now, for the first time, Te Manawa Museum is inviting you to step into his world.
When Peter’s archive of over 300,000 photographs arrived at Te Manawa, the team discovered something wonderful: the collection is a beautifully unpredictable journey.
Opening a box labelled "Rugby" might reveal a legendary All Black try—but right next to it, you might find a 1990s camping trip, a local horse race, or a candid shot of a Prime Minister. Peter didn't just follow the ball; he followed the story, wherever it led.
What’s Waiting For You:
- The Big Moments: Iconic shots of rugby glory, royal visits, and the protest movements that shaped Aotearoa.
- The Hidden Gems: Rare physical prints displayed on unique shelving, alongside digital displays that allow Te Manawa to keep "uncovering" new photos from the 300k+ archive.
- Four Iconic Themes: New Zealand landscapes, social history, rugby, and Bushy’s own life story.
Te Manawa has designed this exhibition to mirror Peter’s own sense of adventure. It's aimed to make visitors wander, discover, and make their own connections with the images that defined our nation.
📍 Location: Te Manawa Museum, Palmerston North
Peter’s lens was always "Out in the Field." Now, Te Manawa invites you to join him there. Watch this space as Te Manawa continues to uncover more from this incredible collection! 🇳🇿📸
Rachel Bush Jonathan Mayo
