Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa
New Zealand's national museum, offering a vibrant journey through its natural history, culture, and stories. Free for residents!

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore

Highlights
Must-see attractions
New Zealand's national museum, offering a vibrant journey through its natural history, culture, and stories. Free for residents!
"Te Papa is one of the best museums I’ve ever visited, a whole experience that will stay with you long."
Free Entry for Kiwis!
NZ residents get in free! International visitors need tickets, book ahead. :ticket:
Don't Miss Gallipoli
The Gallipoli exhibit is a powerful, must-see experience. Allow ample time. :military_helmet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Gallipoli: The Scale of Our War
Level 2
An incredibly lifelike and moving exhibition detailing New Zealand's involvement in WWI. A must-see!

Awesome Forces
Level 1
Experience the power of earthquakes and volcanoes in this interactive and thrilling exhibit. Fun for all ages!

Māori Culture & History
Various levels
Immerse yourself in the rich heritage, art, and traditions of New Zealand's indigenous people.

Nature & Biodiversity
Various levels
Discover New Zealand's unique flora, fauna, and geological wonders, from extinct birds to marine life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry for Kiwis, Paid for Visitors
Allocate Ample Time for Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Entry for Kiwis!
NZ residents get in free! International visitors need tickets, book ahead. :ticket:
Don't Miss Gallipoli
The Gallipoli exhibit is a powerful, must-see experience. Allow ample time. :military_helmet:
Te Papa to charge $35 entry fee for international visitors from September
Interactive Fun for All
Engaging exhibits for kids and adults alike. Great for families! :child:
Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see everything. :athletic_shoe:
Te Papa to remain free for New Zealanders but international visitors will be charged $35 from September
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Entry for Kiwis!
NZ residents get in free! International visitors need tickets, book ahead. :ticket:
Don't Miss Gallipoli
The Gallipoli exhibit is a powerful, must-see experience. Allow ample time. :military_helmet:
Interactive Fun for All
Engaging exhibits for kids and adults alike. Great for families! :child:
Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see everything. :athletic_shoe:
Plan Your Visit
Te Papa is huge! Prioritize exhibits to make the most of your time. :compass:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Te Papa for its engaging, interactive exhibits and its comprehensive portrayal of New Zealand's history and culture. The Gallipoli exhibition and the Awesome Forces experience are frequently highlighted as must-sees. While international visitors note the entry fee, the overall value and educational experience are highly regarded, making it a top recommendation for anyone visiting Wellington.
"We had one day in Wellington and the weather was gorgeous so I wasn’t particularly keen on spending time indoors at a museum. We do love museums though so we thought we’d check it out and I’m so glad we did. The gallipoli exhibit was the best that I’ve seen, it’s something that should not be missed. The exhibit has been done in conjunction with Weta Workshop who did Lord of the Rings. Amazing doesn’t even cover it.
The entire museum is quite interactive with a lot of interesting things for both kids and adults.
A visit to this museum should not be missed"
Natasha Ridley
"Wonderful National Museum. The exhibits are some of the best, very realistic and well maintained. The cultural section of the museum showcased the impressive skills and history of The Maori. The Gallipoli exhibit was informative and captured battles and wartime conditions in an accurate, thoughtful manner. This museum is one of the best we've had the pleasure of visiting. Well worth the trip."
Coco Fitz
"I came here to kill some time while waiting for my room to be ready, and I ended up totally enjoying it!
It was a great experience that helped me understand more about New Zealand — its nature, geography, anthropology, energy, history, navigation, and so much more.
Everything was clearly explained in both English and Māori.
I was also impressed by how well the museum is designed to engage people of all ages. There are drawing stations for kids and interactive exhibits that make the visit fun and educational."
Martín Fernández
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Te Papa is conveniently located on the Wellington waterfront, easily accessible by foot from the city center. Several bus routes stop nearby, and there is limited paid parking available. Many visitors find it a pleasant walk from most central Wellington accommodations.
Yes, there is paid parking available at Te Papa, but it can be limited, especially during peak times. It's often recommended to use public transport or walk if staying centrally.
Absolutely! Wellington's public transport network is efficient. Numerous bus routes stop within a short walking distance of the museum. Check the Metlink website for the most up-to-date route information.
Te Papa is very accessible. It offers ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms throughout the museum, ensuring a comfortable visit for everyone.
From Wellington Airport, you can take a taxi or rideshare service directly to Te Papa, which is about a 15-20 minute drive. Alternatively, the Airport Flyer bus service stops in the city center, from where you can walk or take another bus.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission to Te Papa is free for New Zealand residents and those living in New Zealand. International visitors are required to purchase a ticket for entry.
Ticket prices for international visitors can vary, and it's best to check the official Te Papa website for the most current pricing. Booking online in advance is often recommended.
Te Papa is typically open daily from 10 am to 6 pm, with extended hours on Thursdays until 8 pm. It's always a good idea to verify the exact museum of new zealand te papa tongarewa hours on their website before your visit.
While general admission for residents is free, it's advisable for international visitors to book their tickets online in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to guarantee entry and potentially save time.
Yes, while general entry is free for residents, some temporary or special exhibitions at Te Papa may require a separate ticket purchase for all visitors, including residents. Check the Te Papa website for details on current exhibitions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Gallipoli: The Scale of Our War exhibition is a standout, as is the interactive Awesome Forces exhibit. Exploring the Māori cultural sections and the natural history displays are also highly recommended.
Absolutely! Te Papa is incredibly family-friendly with many interactive displays, hands-on activities, and engaging exhibits like Awesome Forces that children love.
Most visitors recommend spending at least 3-4 hours, but you could easily spend a full day exploring everything. It depends on your interests and how deeply you want to engage with each exhibit.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use in most areas of Te Papa, but flash photography is usually prohibited to protect the exhibits. Some special exhibitions may have specific restrictions.
Te Papa offers a range of facilities including cafes, a restaurant, gift shops, restrooms, cloakrooms, and free Wi-Fi. There are also quiet spaces available for those who need them.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Te Papa has several dining options, including cafes and a restaurant, offering a variety of food and beverages. You can find options for a quick snack or a more substantial meal.
While you can't eat in the exhibition galleries, there are designated areas where you can consume your own food and drinks. It's best to check with staff upon arrival for the most current policy.
The dining options at Te Papa typically offer a mix of New Zealand cuisine, international dishes, and lighter fare. They aim to cater to a wide range of tastes and dietary needs.
Prices at Te Papa's eateries are comparable to other tourist attractions. There are usually options at different price points, including more budget-friendly choices.
Yes, Te Papa's dining facilities generally offer vegetarian and vegan options. It's always a good idea to ask staff about current menu offerings and dietary accommodations.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, personal photography is allowed in most areas of Te Papa, but flash photography is prohibited to protect the artifacts. Always look for signage indicating specific restrictions.
Yes, some temporary exhibitions or specific sensitive displays may have 'no photography' signs. It's crucial to respect these rules to preserve the integrity of the exhibits.
The Gallipoli exhibition, with its large-scale figures, offers dramatic photo opportunities. The exterior architecture and waterfront views are also very photogenic. The 'sunflower room' has been noted as particularly beautiful.
Tripods and professional camera equipment are usually not permitted without prior arrangement or special permission. Te Papa's focus is on general visitor experience, not professional shoots.
The 'sunflower room' is a popular spot for social media photos. The striking architecture of the museum itself and the interactive elements within exhibits also make for great Instagram content.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Plan for at least half a day to allow children to fully explore without feeling rushed. The museum also offers family-friendly dining options. Remember to check for any temporary exhibitions that might be particularly engaging for younger visitors. It’s an educational and fun experience that will keep everyone entertained.
💰 Budget Travelers
Focus on the free permanent exhibitions like Gallipoli, Awesome Forces, and the cultural displays. Pack your own snacks and water to save on food costs, as there are designated areas where you can enjoy them. Spending a full day here offers incredible value for money, providing a deep dive into New Zealand's history and culture without breaking the bank.
📚 History & Culture Enthusiasts
Explore the New Zealand Hall for a comprehensive overview of the nation's journey, from its geological formation to its colonial past. The museum's commitment to presenting information in both English and Māori further enriches the cultural understanding. You could easily spend an entire day delving into the diverse historical and cultural narratives presented here.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Gallipoli Experience: A WWI Masterpiece
What makes this exhibit so powerful is its focus on the personal stories and the sheer scale of the conflict. It's not just a historical account; it's an emotional journey that highlights the sacrifices made. Many visitors describe it as deeply moving and a profound learning experience, emphasizing the importance of remembering this pivotal moment in New Zealand's history. It's a testament to the power of storytelling through art and history.
Interactive Learning: Te Papa's Engaging Approach
This interactive philosophy extends across many of its collections, from natural history to cultural displays. Children, in particular, benefit from the numerous hands-on activities and drawing stations designed to spark curiosity and creativity. The museum's design thoughtfully caters to different learning styles, ensuring that complex topics are made accessible and enjoyable for everyone. It’s this blend of education and entertainment that makes Te Papa a standout destination.
Understanding New Zealand's Identity at Te Papa
From the fascinating extinct native birds to the stories of early navigators and settlers, Te Papa weaves a compelling narrative of Aotearoa. The bilingual explanations in both English and Māori further enhance this understanding, promoting cultural appreciation. It’s a place where you can truly connect with the spirit of New Zealand, learning about its land, its people, and its place in the world.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit