Step into the world of a morally conflicted lover, look deeper at the work of some of New Zealand’s leading artists, and experience the world’s first Māori VR film.

Will she or won’t she? (12 Dec – 31 Jan)

Asterié is a painting inspired by a poem. In this immersive experience, unlock your creativity and explore ideas about love, distance and longing.

Deep Looking (12 Dec – 31 Jan)

Over the course of six weeks, meet one powerful art work at a time. Paintings by Ralph Hotere, Gretchen Albrecht, and Milan Mrkusich.

Slow down, stay still, challenge yourself to look closer than ever before.

Whakakitenga VR experience (18 Jan – 31 Jan, 11am – 4pm )

Meet Ngāti Toa chief Te Rangihaeata in an 1864 watercolour. Step back in time with him in the world’s first Māori virtual reality experience.

Put on a VR headset and be transported to a pivotal moment in Te Rangihaeata’s life and our history. It’s 1846 and the first waves of colonialism are breaking against the shores of his home on Mana Island, north of Wellington.

Brought to Te Papa by Victoria University and Ngāti Toa.

Recommended age 12 and over.

A still from the Whakakitenga VR experience. Photo courtesy of Dusk Ltd.