Te Papa Tongarewa, Museum of New Zealand, is the country’s national museum. It was founded in 1992 and opened to the public in 1998, in a building designed by Jasmax.
Museum entry covers the permanent exhibitions and galleries, and it is free for New Zealanders and anyone living in New Zealand. StoryPlace is ticketed separately. It is reserved for preschoolers and their caregivers, who explore museum themes through play, games, storytelling and song. Older children have two Discovery Centres with interactive games and books.
The trade-off: StoryPlace runs only in morning sessions, and prams have to stay outside because of the space, so a visit with a toddler tends to be planned around it.
Parents’ rooms on three levels have nappy changing, breastfeeding chairs and sinks. The ground-floor cafe serves breakfasts, lunches and snacks, though its kitchen closes well before the museum does. Lockers are on your right as you come in through the main entrance. An international ticket lets you come back the next day at no extra cost, so the museum can be split into two shorter visits.
Family FAQ
How much does Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa cost?
International visitors aged 16+ pay NZD 35, which covers the permanent exhibitions and galleries.
What are the opening hours of Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa?
Open daily 10am-6pm, except Christmas Day.
