If you could sum up the natural and cultural history of New Zealand in one location, this museum would be it. The exhibits are quite interactive with multiple discovery zones and a StoryPlace for the kids. Videos abound, from a 3D one on the squid to one projected on a model of a ocean going canoe. The art exhibits on... more

Great interactive exhibits, and with a range of sections, there will be sure to be something that will take anyone's fancy. Some great Maori / historical artefacts as well, and a separate art gallery section. Don't miss the collosal squid! Now preserved, with a video documentary on being hauled from the Antarctic, 4.2m long and weighing in at 495kg!! more

Offering a variety of exhibits this is an example of just how great a museum can be. more

I was in Wellington and we had a very windy day, so I decided this would be a good time to visit the museum. It is a wonderful museum, learning about the culture and especially the earthquake/volcanic side of the country. It was quite a coincidence that we experienced an earthquake (5.2 on the scale) which shook us from our... more

We aren't normally thrilled with museums, but this one was phenomenal! Please don't miss this one. Admission is free and we stayed there 5 hours and had to tear ourselves away so we could see other things in the city. Be sure to see the clever and surprising Golden Days exhibit if it is still on- brilliantly done! Your kids... more

Our first day we toured the entire museum with 3 adults (including one Kiwi) and 2 children. You should dedicate 3 hours or more for the full experience. Every floor had something for all ages. The museum is divided up well and with a printed guide you can maneuver efficiently. The staff were fantastic. There was never a time when... more

Te Papa has borrowed the best ideas from the world's leading museums in making the exhibits dynamic, interactive and entertaining. A variety of different media is used, together with displays aimed at various age groups to engage their attention. There's a great deal of content to be absorbed here (six floors in all) so I'd recommend two mornings at Te... more

I went when the Lord of the Rings exhibition was on and I had a fantastic time. I think you could actually go more than once to really take everything in. There is something there for all ages and it really gives you a feel for the New Zealand culture. more

First off, the fact that this museum is free to the public is absolutely amazing. This extremely modern museum is one of the best in the world. It deserves to be considered next to the British Museum and the Smithsonian (though those two are extermely tough acts to follow). The exhibits are designed around interaction and while covering a broad... more