North Island

Wellington’s Te Papa Museum

Open in Google Maps

BUILD YOUR OWN TOUR

Excellent

109

START Or schedule a call on

The Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, commonly known as Te Papa, is the national museum and art gallery of New Zealand. Located in Wellington, the capital city, Te Papa offers a unique and interactive experience that showcases the country’s natural, cultural, and artistic heritage.

Location

Te Papa is situated on the waterfront in Wellington’s city center, at 55 Cable Street.

Opening Hours

Te Papa is open daily from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm (except Christmas Day). Extended hours may apply during special exhibitions or events.

Highlights

Diverse exhibitions covering art, history, science, and Māori and Pacific cultures
Interactive displays and engaging multimedia experiences
Unique Māori cultural performances and storytelling
Stunning Marae (Māori meeting house) and wharenui (carved house)
Breathtaking views of Wellington Harbor from the museum’s upper floors

Activities

Exploring the museum’s permanent and temporary exhibitions
Attending Māori cultural performances and storytelling sessions
Participating in guided tours and educational programs
Enjoying the stunning views of Wellington Harbor from the museum’s upper floors
Shopping for unique New Zealand-made gifts and souvenirs at the museum store

Admission Fees

General admission to Te Papa is free. However, some special exhibitions, tours, and experiences may have separate admission fees.

Facilities

Café and restaurant with views of Wellington Harbor
Museum store offering a wide range of New Zealand-made products and souvenirs
Fully accessible facilities, including elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms
Cloakroom and baggage storage
Free Wi-Fi throughout the museum

Accessibility

Te Papa is fully accessible, with elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms throughout the museum. Wheelchairs and mobility scooters are available for loan at no charge. The museum also offers sign language interpreted tours and audio-described tours for visitors who are blind or have low vision.

How to Get There

Te Papa is easily accessible by various means of transportation:

On foot: located on the Wellington waterfront, within walking distance of the city center and many hotels
By bus: multiple bus routes stop nearby, including the Wellington City bus loop
By car: limited paid parking is available in the museum’s underground car park
By train: a short walk from Wellington Railway Station

Nearby Attractions

Wellington Waterfront and Oriental Bay
Wellington Cable Car and Botanic Garden
New Zealand Parliament Buildings and Beehive
Wellington Museum and City Gallery Wellington
Cuba Street and Courtenay Place entertainment precincts

Insider Tips

Allow at least 2-3 hours to explore the museum, as there is a lot to see and experience
Check the museum’s website for special exhibitions, events, and cultural performances
Take advantage of the free guided tours offered throughout the day
Don’t miss the stunning Marae and wharenui on Level 4, which showcase Māori art and culture

What Visitors Say

Visitors to Te Papa consistently praise the museum’s engaging and informative exhibitions, interactive displays, and unique cultural experiences. Many describe it as a must-visit attraction in Wellington, offering a fascinating insight into New Zealand’s history, culture, and natural heritage. For more highlights and tour reviews see real experiences from our guests: The Road Trip Testimonials.