Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa

Welcome to the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, located at 55 Cable Street in Wellington. As an establishment, museum, point of interest, and tourist attraction, we offer a diverse range of experiences for visitors of all ages and interests.

One of our current exhibitions features the ground-breaking artworks of the Mataaho Collective, a group of four talented wāhine Māori artists who have collaborated for the past decade. Their innovative and thought-provoking works are sure to captivate and inspire.

Another exhibition showcases powerful photos of the waka fleet that gathered on Waitangi Day in 2020 to commemorate the 80-year anniversary of the launch of Ngātokimatawhāorua, the ancestral waka that made the voyage from Hawaiki to Aotearoa. These photos provide a glimpse into the rich history and cultural significance of this momentous event.

For those interested in Māori culture and traditions, our exhibition on hīnaki (eel traps) offers a unique opportunity to explore their sculptural dimensions and intricate designs. Additionally, you can learn about Māori relationships with two significant awa (rivers) and discover contemporary artworks related to or inspired by hīnaki.

Tangata o le Moana is an exhibition that celebrates the culture and history of Pacific people in New Zealand, both past and present. It provides a comprehensive and engaging narrative that showcases the contributions and experiences of Pacific communities.

For history enthusiasts, our exhibition on the Gallipoli campaign in World War I offers a unique perspective through the eyes and words of eight ordinary New Zealanders who found themselves in extraordinary circumstances. This ground-breaking exhibition brings their stories to life and offers a deeper understanding of this significant event.

If you're a music lover, don't miss the rare opportunity to play the spectacular sculpture and Steinway concert grand piano by Michael Parekōwhai, titled 'He Kōrero Pūrākau mo te Awanui o te motu: story of a New Zealand river'. This interactive installation allows you to immerse yourself in the beauty of music and art.

In addition to our exhibitions, we offer a variety of events and programs throughout the year. From live performances by acclaimed artists like Moses Mackay from SOL3 MIO to literary events like Writers on Mondays, there is always something exciting happening at Te Papa.

We are committed to research and conservation, with ongoing projects focused on topics such as orchids, bird species encountered along New Zealand's Great Walks, genetics of flowering plants, mental health issues in Asian communities, and more. You can explore our research and even get support for your own investigations.

As a visitor, you can also become a friend of Te Papa and enjoy exclusive benefits and discounts with your membership, including invitations to exhibition previews and private viewings.

If you're looking for ways to support Te Papa, you can make a donation, consider a bequest, or become a patron. Your contribution helps us continue our important work of preserving and sharing New Zealand's cultural and natural heritage.

We offer free entry for everyone, although charges may apply to some short-term exhibitions and activities. Please check our website for more information and updates on possible sessions due to last-minute cancellations.

Thank you for visiting the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa. We hope you have a memorable and enriching experience exploring our diverse collections and exhibitions.