WELLINGTON, NEW ZEALAND.- The Reserve Bank Museum will be officially opened tonight by Peter Hillary, on behalf of Sir Edmund Hillary, the only living New Zealander portrayed on New Zealand's bank notes.

Situated on the ground floor of the Reserve Bank of New Zealand building in Wellington, the museum is the first of its kind, focussing on the New Zealand economy, the role of central banking, and the production of currency.

The museum is designed to inform people about the heritage of a unique New Zealand institution and how the economy works.

The past and present economy is brought to life, through the use of information panels and a range of interactive displays. For the first time ever people can see the Bank's valuable collection of historic notes and coins.

It is open Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 4.00pm, except public holidays and on special occasions.