Discovery Centres  

Discovery Centres are places specifically designed for children and families to visit, and are full of hands-on exhibits and games as well as magazines and books. Visitors are encouraged to explore, touch, play, ask questions, research and learn.

Staff are on hand to answer your questions. You can also find reference books and magazines associated with the specialist area of each centre. 

  • Te Huka ā Tai
    Te Huka ā Tai

    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).

  • Inspiration station
    Inspiration station

    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.

  • NatureSpace
    NatureSpace

    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!

  • PlaNet Pasifika
    PlaNet Pasifika

    PlaNet Pasifika showcases the diversity of expression and creativity amongst the people of Pacific Island nations.

Host and kid in Te Huka ā Tai
New Zealand Government