A new multi-million dollar museum on the Waitangi Treaty Grounds is expected to be built before 6 February next year.
The Bay of Islands development, which includes an education centre, is expected to cost about $12.5 million.
The Minister of Internal Affairs has announced the Lottery Grants Board will contribute $5.75 million.
Waitangi National Trust chief executive Greg McManus says its vision is for Waitangi to become a first choice destination for both New Zealanders and international visitors.
He says the development will provide a secure climate-controlled area in which to house significant taonga and stories of Maori and European history.
The Trust hopes the museum will be finished by February next year.
A charitable foundation to help pay for the museum and education centre was set up in 2012.
