Discovery Centres
Te Papa’s four hands-on Discovery Centres are bright, lively places where kids learn while having fun, and there’s lots to keep adults happy and occupied too. Discovery Centres inspire children and discoverers of all ages to become fully involved in the stories of our land and peoples.
At the Discovery Centres kids and grown-ups can engage in a variety of enjoyable and educational interactive activities. You can also find reference books and magazines associated with the specialist area of each centre.
Staff are on hand to answer your questions and the dedicated Research Areas allow access to Tai Awatea | Knowledge Net, and other research tools. You can also find reference books and magazines associated with the specialist area of each centre.
> Have a peek at the Discovery Centres, presented by What Now (video, starting 1.32 minute)
Te Papa’s natural environment Discovery Centre will take you on an incredible journey through the natural world. At NatureSpace you step inside a dinosaur footprint, inspect an insect under a microscope, find a fossil, and much more. NatureSpace rocks!
Inspiration Station is a world of creativity and fun. Come and meet our big baby, create a Flash New You, draw a giant cartoon, explore the world of puppets, and more. Children and adults will be enthralled.
The PlaNet Pasifika Discovery Centre has been completely revamped. Kids, come and explore the great new activities and exhibits!
Nau mai haere mai! Welcome to Te Huka ā Tai, an amazing place where you can learn about Māori culture. Have a go at weaving a cloak, compose your own mihimihi (greeting), swing a poi, or play with the cool tii rakau (rhythm sticks).