Te Papa Museum Wellington waterfront exterior

Te Papa Tongarewa — Museum of New Zealand

Wellington, New Zealand

HistoryArts Culture
Would you do this?
Duration3 hrs
EffortEasy
BudgetMid-Range
PriceUSD 21
StyleSelf-Guided
Best monthsDec, Jan, Feb, Mar
StatusMust-See

About This Activity

Te Papa Tongarewa is one of the world's great national museums, free for all New Zealand residents. International visitors pay NZ$35 for general admission (ticket valid for 48 hours). Six floors trace New Zealand's natural and cultural history, from ancient Gondwana to contemporary Māori art. Highlights include a colossal squid specimen (the largest ever caught), the Treaty of Waitangi display, and magnificent carved meeting houses. Allow at least 3 hours — and end at the waterfront cafe with its harbour views over Wellington.

Seasonal note: Open daily year-round (closed Christmas Day). Summer draws the most visitors; visit on a weekday morning to avoid crowds.

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