Wellington's Te Papa Museum
Te Papa is New Zealand's national museum, where you can explore the great stories of this fascinating land and the people who live here.
Te Papa is recognised as a world leader in the new wave of innovative and interactive museum experiences, and has achieved an international reputation for excellence. The Washington Post called it 'one of the most ambitiously eclectic museums in the world'. Since opening in 1998, Te Papa has attracted well over one million visitors each year and been a huge success with international visitors as well as locals. Located centrally on Wellington's spectacular waterfront, the museum has quickly become a 'must see' on any visitor's itinerary. There are about 20 exhibition galleries, so allow yourself half a day to explore. Open 10am to 6pm, and 9pm on Thursdays, with free admission. Audio guides are available in English, German, Japanese and Maori ($5 per person).
What To Do
- Introducing Te Papa
Take the 'Introducing Te Papa' tour for an orientation of the building and exhibitions (takes 45 minutes, departs 10.15am and 2pm, $9 adults).
- Natural New Zealand
Watch New Zealand's geology and natural environment come to life in the Awesome Forces and Mountains to Sea exhibits.
- Bush City
Walk on a swing bridge above native bush in the Bush City exhibit.
- Maori discoveries
Learn the stories of New Zealand's indigenous people, the Maori. Discover beautiful taonga (treasures) in Mana Whenua, and see the beautiful carved modern marae (meeting house).
- New Zealand's identity
Explore New Zealand's changing identity and take an affectionate look at the contribution of sheep to our lifestyle and economy.
- Discovery Centres
Visit Te Papa's interactive Discovery Centres for some family fun including storytelling, cartoons, computer puppets and weaving.
- Time Warp ride
Experience a time travel ride through the past and future in the popular virtual reality ride, Time Warp.
- Art exhibitions
View the changing art exhibitions in Te Papa's new 1500sq metres of gallery spaces.
Other Facilities
- Short-term exhibitions and theatrical events at Te Papa's galleries and Soundings theatre.
- Icon Restaurant, open daily from noon.
Getting There
- Te Papa is situated on Cable Street, on Wellington's waterfront, and is open every day of the year from 10am – 6pm, and until 9pm on Thursdays. Entry is free, though charges apply to some exhibitions and the Time Warp.
- The distinctive yellow City Circular buses take in Wellington's inner city sites, including Te Papa. The buses loop the city every 10 minutes and the fare is $2 for adults, 80 cents for senior citizens and 50 cents for children.