He Tohu at National Library of New Zealand
Home to a declaration, a treaty, and a petition — New Zealand’s founding documents are at the National Library of New Zealand.
Any visitor to Wellington should have the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa at the top of their to-do list. The largest museum in the country takes pride of place on Wellington’s waterfront. At 36,000 square metres and six stories high, it contains a vast repository of collections. It’s home to more than 800,000 artworks, objects, and specimens. It curates cutting-edge interactive exhibitions with a contemporary, and bicultural approach. Te Papa is a museum experience that’s accessible to all.
Among the long-term exhibitions is Te Taiao Nature where you can explore New Zealand’s weird and wonderful wildlife. It tells the story of the country’s seismic history, and how it has influenced the incredible native flora and fauna. Those natural wonders are on display in Bush City, a living outdoor exhibition. You can experience thousands of native plant species and some fun family-friendly activities on an onsite bushwalk.
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Te Papa is also home to a dedicated gallery space, Toi Art. The gallery hosts interactive and immersive works, alongside a roster of showstopping exhibitions. Toi Art also showcases the national art collection, which Te Papa is the custodian of. Its 40,0000 works cover a range of mediums from traditional and contemporary photography to sculpture, and painting. Part of Toi Art’s intention is to remove the barriers of traditional art galleries and show visitors that art is for everyone. Discovering and exploring art is part of the Te Papa experience.
In 2015, Te Papa joined forces with Wētā Workshop to create an exhibition that humanises the stark realities of war. ‘Gallipoli: The Scale of Our War’ follows eight ordinary New Zealanders through the Gallipoli campaign, using their stories and words to explain this harrowing event. Models of the men, at 2.4 times human size, reflect the monumental impact of war. The ground-breaking exhibition combines cutting-edge technology with important historical storytelling for an unforgettable museum experience.
On 14 February 1998, Te Papa opened its doors for the first time. In the 25-plus years since that day, the museum has welcomed almost 34 million visitors.
Looking for more?
Pukeahu National War Memorial Park
A short walk from the centre of the city lies Pukeahu National War Memorial Park. It is a place to reflect on New Zealand’s experience of war, military conflict, and peacekeeping, and how it shapes the national identity.
New Zealand Parliament Tours
Walk the corridors of power and see where New Zealand laws and policies are made.
Wellington Museum
Experience the stories of Wellington and its people. From maritime history, early Māori settlement, and the city’s evolution since becoming the capital in 1865.
New Zealand Police Museum
Telling the stories of how police have dealt with some of the country’s most infamous crimes, disasters, and other events.
Katherine Mansfield House & Garden
Take a step into 19th-century colonial Wellington and the life of Katherine Mansfield. One of the world’s most acclaimed writers and proud Wellingtonian.
Nairn Street Cottage
Step back in time and visit Wellington’s oldest original cottage and heritage garden.
Wellington Botanic Garden ki Paekākā
You’ll find manicured rose gardens, winding pathways and spectacular views over more than 25 hectares.
City Gallery Wellington Te Whare Toi
Wellington’s contemporary art gallery is a dynamic cultural presence. You’ll find exhibitions that delight and challenge.
Good coffee and seasonal food at Nikau Café
Brunch classics, famous kedgeree, and some of the best cheese scones in town.