Letter: We need to clarify the ownership

OPINION: I write in reply to John Brown (Letters, Nov 21-22).

The story of the Rangatira bell going on display is even more problematic than his thoughts on the Museum of Wellington City & Sea's display criteria.

We heard of the bell and Ross Auld through The Dominion Post.

The day before the article was published, we spoke to Mr Auld, who told us how he came to have the bell.

That story was different from the one published the following day.

When I spoke to the newspaper about whether we would take it into the collection, it was on the understanding that Mr Auld had bought the bell at auction.

I have gone back to him to clarify if he's the rightful owner.

It would be inappropriate for a public institution to take into its collection an item with no clear ownership.

We have just opened our new exhibition celebrating 10 years of the museum, 10 Years in Wonderland. It includes a display of ships' bells, including the first Rangatira's bell.

BRETT MASON

Director, Museums Wellington

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