Very cool place with lots to look at from a tram ride to the aircraft hanger, old technology... read more
Very cool place with lots to look at from a tram ride to the aircraft hanger, old technology... read more
This museum houses some nice collections of transport and technology and is the main location... read more
This museum is in on two sites - the smaller site (where you park) is where a superb aviation hanger can be found. It’s full to the brim with planes and even this non-plane enthusiast got caught up reading all the info and watching the staff start up engines or get the Avenger plane’s foldable wings folding! My companions had to come and find me... The day we were there the steam train was running and even though it’s only a short stretch of track, it really gave you a flavour for the sounds, smells and feel of the age of steam.
I was disappointed by the second site though, and this is why I’m not sure whether MOTAT is a museum or a kiddie-attraction. With brightly coloured buildings (many of which didn’t seem to be in use) and big bold lettering, it seemed very geared up for the very young visitor. It was great to see the trams, and the fire engines and the pump house, but it was all intermingled with things specifically for children. I’m not knocking this at all, as this sort of environment is a great way for kids to learn, but I would have liked to have wandered around somewhere that looked less like TellyTubby Land and more like the historical site it probably once was.

Thanks for your review and suggestions, Denise. We are delighted to hear you thought the aviation hanger was so superb, your friends had to come at find you as you were so immersed in the experience. MOTAT is a museum that offers a fun and exciting learning experience for visitors of all ages. It is a great place for a family day out.
The Aviation section and the second site was fantastic and the staff so helpful.
Sadly the main site has gone down hill.
It once was a great place for kids of all ages now it is very much set up for the younger.

Thanks for your review, K1w191. We are happy to hear you thought the Aviation section was fantastic. We are sorry you didn't enjoy the main site as much. Keep an eye out for our future events such as Pasifika Vibes, bringing you a weekend of activities, food and entertainment for all to enjoy.
Our whole family loved MOTAT-our kids are 15 and 17. Our guide, Dave, made it such a wonderful experience for us. He clearly loved his job, was an expert on aviation and we learnt so many interesting facts from him. We spent 2 hours just at the Aviation Museum then took a lovely ride on the tram to the rest of the museum which we also enjoyed immensely. Great coffee in the cafe too.

Thank you for your review! We are very happy to hear your whole family enjoyed visiting MOTAT. We will pass along your praises to Dave. We hope to see you again soon.
Plenty to see and do
Not as much interaction as some other Museums
Enjoyed the tram ride too
Reasonably priced

Hi there, xmsltd. Thank you for you review. We are pleased you enjoyed your time at MOTAT, including the tram ride.
We went there with our two grandsons.
Lots to see and do to keep the attention of the boys at their peak.
Well worth a visit.

Thank you for your outstanding review, Adventurers049. Very happy to hear both you and your grandsons enjoyed your time at MOTAT. We have different experiences on offer every month, so we hope to see you again soon.
Absolutely loved this museum it is excellent for young children,so much to explore and hands on experiences
Don’t miss going to Motat 2 on the included price via the train the collection of aircraft is simply amazing my husband was in his element
Had lunch in the cafe which was reasonable and had an amazing butter chicken pie
Well done MOTAT

Hi there, baywhey. Thank you for your amazing review on your visit to MOTAT. We are thrilled to hear that you had an incredible day out with your family and enjoyed the cafe too. We offer new and exciting experiences every month, so we hope to see you again at MOTAT soon.