Te Papa is New Zealand's bold and innovative national museum and a recognised world leader in interactive and visitor-focused museum experiences.

Entry is free, though charges apply to some short-term exhibitions and activities. New Zealand's geology and natural environment and the stories of New Zealand's indigenous people, the Maori, are celebrated in Te Papa's permanent exhibitions, while Te Papa's Marae is a vibrant contemporary meeting house and a living communal centre, unique in a museum.

An exciting range of exhibitions display New Zealand's diverse art and visual culture and top-rating international exhibitions tour regularly. Te Papa's event programme features free events and entertainment, performances, floortalks, lectures, and more.

Te Papa, New Zealand's bold and innovative national museum is set in a breathtaking location on Wellington's beautiful waterfront. As well as being fun, adds depth to the experience, increases understanding and helps orient the first time visitor

The Museum has attracted over twenty million visitors since opening in 1998 and has established itself as a must-see on any visitor's itinerary.

Permanent Exhibitions

Slice of Heaven 20th Century Aotearoa

Discover what united and divided us in the 20th century, and shaped our lives today. Decide whether New Zealand really is a 'slice of heaven'. Themes of the exhibition include: International Relations; Social Welfare and the State; Diversity and Civil Rights.

Blood, Earth, Fire, Whāngai, Whenua, Ahi Kā: The Transformation of Aotearoa New Zealand

An extraordinary journey of discovery through the changing landscape of Aotearoa New Zealand. You will be confronted by the mass of 'alien' species that humans brought to this land. And why not become an alien yourself? In the 'Survivor' computer interactive you need to choose species to take from your planet for survival in a new place.

Our Space

This innovative, interactive exploration of identity, reflects New Zealanders' attitudes to their country, one another, their history, their past and their future. Utilising state of the art technology, Our Space comprises of four key components, The Wall, The Map, The High Ride and The Deep. General entry is free, the rides are charged for.

· See all exhibitions.

· And don't forget the largest ever Colossal Squid to be defrosted and dissected, full details on the Te Papa blog

StoryPlace

StoryPlace is a magical place for those aged five and under to explore through play, make-believe, storytelling, and games. Birthday party package start from $100.

Introducing Te Papa Tour - 60 minutes

A guided tour with an experienced, knowledgeable guide is a great way to explore Te Papa. As well as being fun, adds depth to the experience, increases understanding and helps orient the first time visitor.

The fun and informative 'Introducing Te Papa' tour is available daily. There are also a number of exciting private tours on offer, for more tours and more details have a look on Te Papa's website. All tours can be tailored for special interests and multi-lingual guides are available on request.

This tour provides an overview of Te Papa's highlights, Maori treasures, and New Zealand history. Ideal for visitors with limited time or wanting an introduction for an extended visit.

Summer (1 November - 31 March):

Tours depart at 10.15am, 11am, 12 noon, 1pm, 2pm, and 3pm. On Thursday nights, an extra tour at 7pm.

Winter (1 April - 31 October):

Tours depart at 10.15am, 12 noon and 2pm. On Thursday nights, an extra tour at 7pm.

Book online or purchase tickets from the Level 2 Information Desk. For further information, refer to guided tour information on Te Papa's website or call +64 4 381 7111.

Te Papa Picture Library

Te Papa Picture Library is the gateway to Te Papa's unique collection of New Zealand photographs. If you would like to order a copy of an image from their collectionvisit the website:www.tepapapicturelibrary.co.nz

Te Papa's photography

Te Papa's photography collection contains over 800,000 rare images, including Māori and Pacific taonga (treasures), and vintage shots of New Zealand's dramatic history and culture. Beautiful artefacts, objects, and pieces of art, both historical and contemporary, can also be found in Te Papa's photo collection.

Te Papa also holds the collection of pre-eminent twentienth-century New Zealand photographer, Brian Brake.

Researchers can browse through a wide selection of historical photographs at Te Aka Matua Library by booking an appointment. Email picturelibrary@tepapa.govt.nz to book an appointment time.

Other services

Commissioned photography of Te Papa collection items. Consultation about the use of culturally specific images and artworks. Advice on copyright.

Accessibility

Te Papa caters for a variety of visitors with special access needs. Before you come to Te Papa, feel free to call the Information Centre, ph +64 4 381 7000, and let us know your interests and needs. During your visit Te Papa Hosts are available for assistance and information.

Te Papa provides open and covered parking for cars and campervans. Parking near the main entrance is also available for visitors with disabilities. Cost is $3.50 per hour up to a daily maximum of $28. Access to the building is at ground level through the main entrance.

Disclaimer

This information is provided by third parties and should be used as a guide only. Please contact the provider to confirm any details.