MOTAT Auckland
Explore Auckland's transport history and future tech at MOTAT, with vintage trams, planes, and interactive science exhibits.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Free tram rides & live demos
MOTAT Auckland
Best Time
Free tram rides & live demos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Auckland's transport history and future tech at MOTAT, with vintage trams, planes, and interactive science exhibits.
"A fantastic spot for families, offering hours of fun and learning with interactive exhibits and historic rides."
🎯 Free Tram Rides!
Ride the historic trams between MOTAT 1 and the Aviation Hall for free on the 3rd Sunday of the month.
💰 Discount Opportunities
Check for discounts with AA membership, SuperGold cards, or student IDs to save on admission.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Te Puawānanga Science Centre
Interactive exhibits spark curiosity for all ages, with hands-on fun and fascinating science stories.
Historic Tram Rides
Ride vintage trams between MOTAT sites, a nostalgic journey through Auckland's transport history.
Aviation Hall
Explore a hangar filled with impressive aircraft, from vintage planes to modern marvels.
1877 Pumping Station
Step back in time at this original pump house, showcasing early industrial technology.
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Value for Money
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Tram Rides!
Ride the historic trams between MOTAT 1 and the Aviation Hall for free on the 3rd Sunday of the month.
💰 Discount Opportunities
Check for discounts with AA membership, SuperGold cards, or student IDs to save on admission.
👨👩👧👦 All-Day Family Fun
MOTAT is a fantastic spot for kids, offering interactive exhibits and plenty to explore for hours.
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking can be challenging during peak times; consider parking further away or using public transport.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Tram Rides!
Ride the historic trams between MOTAT 1 and the Aviation Hall for free on the 3rd Sunday of the month.
💰 Discount Opportunities
Check for discounts with AA membership, SuperGold cards, or student IDs to save on admission.
👨👩👧👦 All-Day Family Fun
MOTAT is a fantastic spot for kids, offering interactive exhibits and plenty to explore for hours.
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking can be challenging during peak times; consider parking further away or using public transport.
☕ Cafe Delights
Enjoy surprisingly decent food, including pies and bagels, at the onsite cafe.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
MOTAT is a highly-rated family-friendly attraction offering a mix of historical transport and engaging science exhibits. Visitors praise the interactive nature of the Te Puawānanga Science Centre and the nostalgic tram rides. While some find the admission price a bit steep, many agree it provides a full day of entertainment and educational value for all ages.
"Very good place for the family to spend the day. Plenty of parking and some great activities including the tram ride between the MOTAT locations. The aircraft in the hangers are wonderful as well as the steam pumping stations. There is even some old cars and a R100 rotary Mazda engined car for the lads."
Joe Ninety
"While the first few halls were a bit boring, the Science and Technology Centre (hall 5) was really entertaining to both kids and adults. I was particularly impressed by the periodical table that lights up. The kids had so much fun charging the battery to unleash on that skewer of balls. The slide between the levels provided hours of entertainment.
The food was surprisingly decent. The pies were solid and the smoked salmon bagel was better than the one I had at Best Ugly Bagels."
Brian L
"It was pretty good, it opens all year long except on Christmas Day. On that day there were ambulances there for people to explore the insides of the ambulances 🚑, also to experience CPR on plastics figures. We then explored the Science and Technology Centre, it was very nice and fun 🤩. We also rode the train to the Aviation Hall where there were lots of fun games to play. It was Fabulous day!!!"
Nina Zhao
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
MOTAT is located at 915 Great North Road, Western Springs. You can reach it by car, with ample parking available, or via public transport. Several bus routes stop nearby, and it's a pleasant walk from some areas of Western Springs.
Yes, MOTAT offers parking, but it can get very busy, especially on weekends and during special events. Arriving early is recommended, or consider parking at the Auckland Zoo and taking the tram.
Absolutely! Several bus routes service the Great North Road area, making it accessible via public transport. Check the Auckland Transport website for the most up-to-date route information.
While there isn't a train station directly at MOTAT, you can take a train to a nearby station and then connect with a bus service. The closest major train station is in the city centre.
The best way is to take the free historic tram that runs between the two sites. It's a fun experience in itself!
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
MOTAT is generally open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, except for Christmas Day. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most current hours before your visit.
Admission prices vary: Children under 5 and SuperGold Card holders are free. Children (5-15) are $10, Adults are $19, and a Family Pass (2 adults + up to 4 children) is $45. Students with NZ ID and Overseas Seniors (65+) are $10.
Yes, discounts are available for students with NZ ID, Overseas Seniors, and those with AA membership. Mates of MOTAT members also get free entry.
While tickets were previously sold at the door, it's now recommended to book online in advance, especially for popular events like the Christmas lights, as they can sell out.
Yes, MOTAT is very family-friendly and suitable for toddlers. The Science and Technology Centre has interactive elements, and the grounds are pram-friendly.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
MOTAT offers a wide range of exhibits, including historic transport (trains, trams, planes, cars), the 1877 Pumping Station, and the interactive Te Puawānanga Science and Technology Centre.
MOTAT is highly recommended for kids! The interactive nature of the exhibits, the tram rides, and the dedicated Science Centre make it an engaging and educational experience for children.
You can easily spend a full day at MOTAT, especially if you have children. Many visitors report staying until closing time, enjoying the diverse attractions.
MOTAT hosts special events throughout the year, including themed live days on the 3rd Sunday of the month with free tram rides and demonstrations, and popular Christmas lights events.
Highlights include the Te Puawānanga Science Centre with its interactive displays, the Aviation Hall, the historic trams, and the 1877 Pumping Station.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, MOTAT has a cafe that offers a selection of food, including pies and bagels, which have been noted as surprisingly decent.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally acceptable to bring your own snacks and drinks to enjoy in designated picnic areas if available. Check with MOTAT directly for their policy.
Specific dietary options are not detailed, but the cafe typically offers standard cafe fare. It's best to inquire directly with the cafe staff upon arrival for current offerings.
MOTAT is located in Western Springs, which has limited dining options directly on-site. However, you can find various cafes and restaurants in nearby Ponsonby or along Great North Road.
Prices at the MOTAT cafe are generally considered reasonable for a museum cafe, offering good value for the quality.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the historic trams, the impressive aircraft in the Aviation Hall, the vintage machinery in the Pumping Station, and the interactive displays in the Science Centre.
Generally, photography is allowed inside the exhibits for personal use. However, always be mindful of any specific signage or staff instructions regarding photography, especially in sensitive areas.
Drone usage is typically restricted at attractions like MOTAT to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors. It's best to check MOTAT's official policy on drone usage before flying.
Morning light can be great for outdoor shots of the trams and grounds. For indoor exhibits, lighting conditions will vary, but the Science Centre offers dynamic visual elements.
While personal photography is usually permitted, commercial photography or filming may require prior permission. Always respect the privacy of other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1With pram-friendly access and facilities like parent rooms, it’s a comfortable outing for those with younger children. The variety of exhibits means there's something to capture the imagination of every child, from aspiring pilots to budding scientists. Plan for a full day to truly experience all MOTAT has to offer.
💰 Budget Travelers
Packing your own snacks and drinks can also help manage costs. For solo travelers or couples, the adult price of $19 offers a full day of exploration, making it a worthwhile investment for a unique Auckland experience.
🤓 History & Tech Enthusiasts
The Te Puawānanga Science Centre provides a forward-looking perspective, showcasing innovation and scientific principles. This blend of historical artifacts and modern interactive exhibits makes MOTAT a rich learning environment for those passionate about how things work and how they've developed over time.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring MOTAT's Historic Transport
Beyond trams, the Aviation Hall houses an impressive array of aircraft, showcasing the evolution of flight. From early biplanes to more modern machines, it’s a fascinating glimpse into aviation history. For those interested in industrial heritage, the 1877 Pumping Station is a must-see. This well-preserved site demonstrates the ingenuity of Victorian engineering and its vital role in the city's development.
Visitors can also explore a collection of vintage cars and motorcycles, offering a look at automotive history. The variety ensures there's something to capture the imagination of every transport enthusiast, making MOTAT a comprehensive journey through Auckland's technological and transport evolution.
The Interactive Wonders of Te Puawānanga
With numerous hands-on exhibits, visitors can experiment, discover, and play. The centre encourages curiosity through activities that demonstrate scientific concepts in a fun and accessible way. One standout feature is the periodic table that lights up, offering a visually engaging way to learn about elements. Children, in particular, find immense joy in the activities, such as charging batteries to power kinetic sculptures.
The slide between levels is another popular attraction, adding an element of playful discovery to the learning experience. Te Puawānanga is more than just a museum exhibit; it's an immersive environment that fosters a love for STEM subjects and showcases the innovative spirit that drives progress.
MOTAT for Families: A Day of Discovery
The free tram rides between the two MOTAT sites are a particular hit with kids, adding an element of adventure to the visit. The Te Puawānanga Science Centre is a hub of activity, with numerous hands-on experiments and engaging displays that keep young minds stimulated. The pram-friendly environment and available parent rooms also make it a comfortable experience for families with very young children.
Beyond the main attractions, MOTAT often hosts family-friendly activities and events, especially during school holidays and weekends. The onsite cafe also provides convenient dining options, ensuring a stress-free day out for the whole family.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit