New Zealand Liberation Museum in Le Quesnoy, France

By Ōtepoti He Puna Auaha | Dunedin UNESCO City Of Literature | Posted: Wednesday Oct 01, 2025

Watch: Chris Watts, Toitū Otago Settlers Museum Visitor Programmes Coordinator, speaks about the recently opened New Zealand Liberation Museum in Le Quesnoy, France.

On November 4th 1918, the historic French town was liberated from its German occupation by the New Zealand Rifle Brigade, signalling the start of an enduring relationship between Kiwis and Quercitains. Just over a century later, that relationship was marked by the opening of New Zealand’s international war memorial museum in the former mayor’s residence in the town.

Chris Watts recently ventured to the remote northern French town, and reflects on his visit, the exhibitions, and the wider significance of the town.

Catch up on the recent Otago Settlers Association’s Tuesday Club (9 September) with this engaging recording: Tuesday Club - NZ Liberation Museum – Le Quesnoy