Trade: About Us

Situated on Wellington’s waterfront, Te Papa is a landmark building in the heart of New Zealand’s capital city. Since opening on 14 February 1998, Te Papa has welcomed more than 35 million visitors.

Te Papa is one of TripAdvisor’s top-rated attractions in Aotearoa New Zealand and the South Pacific and is proudly Qualmark Gold accredited.

Guardians of national collections

As kaitiaki of Aotearoa New Zealand's national collections, we’re responsible for the preservation and care of over two million taonga across five major collection areas:

• Mātauranga Māori

• Natural History

• History

• Art

• Pacific Cultures

Our team of experts safeguards these treasures for future generations, makes them accessible in person and online, conducts important preservation work, and undertakes world-leading research.

Te Papa experts also build the collections and create new knowledge through fieldwork and research, including collaborations around the world.

As New Zealand’s national museum, we’re dedicated to enriching understanding of our people, places, and history through our bicultural approach and innovative museum experiences.

Find more information and view our digital museum.

Repatriation

Te Papa is entrusted with the kaupapa to return Māori and Moriori ancestral remains from international collections to their communities.

Māori and Moriori believe that through this ultimate return to their domestic homelands, the dead and their living descendants will retrieve their dignity.

Find more information on repatriation.

Exhibitions

Te Papa offers both permanent and touring exhibitions throughout the year, providing engaging and immersive experiences for all ages and interests. Must-see exhibitions for international visitors include:

• Te Taiao | Nature: Discover New Zealand's unique natural environment, from native birds and plants to geological wonders and conservation challenges.

• Gallipoli: The Scale of Our War: Experience the emotional and physical impact of the First World War through larger-than-life sculptures and powerful storytelling.

• Treaty of Waitangi: Signs of a Nation: Explore the significance of New Zealand’s founding document and its ongoing importance to the relationship between Māori and the Crown.

• Toi Art: Immerse yourself in New Zealand’s largest art gallery space, showcasing historic, modern and contemporary art from Aotearoa and around the world.

Find more information on our exhibitions.

Museum tours and experiences

Explore our exhibitions through guided tours, interactive displays, and immersive experiences that bring the stories of Aotearoa New Zealand to life. Our guided tours cater to all interests, providing in-depth insights into the diverse cultures, natural history, and art of New Zealand.

For more information on tours and experiences for your clients, please email our trade team: trade@tepapa.govt.nz