Free museum entry for New Zealanders and people living in New Zealand
Open every day 10am-6pm
(except Christmas Day)
Free museum entry for New Zealanders and people living in New Zealand
Our exciting programme of ngā kaupapa motuhake runs all year. Watch song and dance performances, join in with kids activities and cultural days, hear from our experts, and much more.
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A free drop-in session by contemporary artists featured in the exhibition He Toi Whakairo: The Art of Māori Carving. Experience live whakairo (carving), create your own karetao (articulated marionette figures), and meet artists and ask questions.
Sat 29 Aug 2026, 11.00am to 2.00pm
Event Ngā kaupapa motuhake
Inspired by hōtoke (winter), smoky flavours, and shared stories, Kai-kōrero is Te Papa Cafe’s entry in Aotearoa New Zealand’s most hotly contested culinary competition.
Mon 03 Aug to Sun 30 Aug, 9am–3pm
Event Ngā kaupapa motuhake
A high tea to delight your eyes and taste buds – with new menu inspired by Slow Burn: Women and Photography.
Daily sessions at 10:30am, 11:00am, 11:30am, 1:30pm, 2:00pm, and 2:30pm.
Event Ngā kaupapa motuhake
The International Institute of Modern Letters presents a series of events highlighting the very latest work of Aotearoa New Zealand writers. A lively and stimulating way to begin the week.
From Mon 6 July
Three brilliant novelists discuss their exciting and inventive new novels, writing the weird present, and possible futures.
Mon 31 Aug 2026, 12.15 to 1.15
Event Ngā kaupapa motuhake
Two writers take the horse as the subject of their memoirs, with very different approaches. They discuss writing, and life with, or alongside, horses.
Mon 7 Sep 2026, 12.15 to 1.15
Event Ngā kaupapa motuhake
He Puna Kōrero invites you to listen to inspirational words from Māori language leaders to fuel your reo Māori journey amongst the community every Wednesday in celebration of Mahuru Māori.
Wed 9 Sep 2026, 12:15– 1:15pm
Wed 16 Sep 2026, 12:15– 1:15pm
Wed 23 Sep 2026, 12:15– 1:15pm
Wed 30 Sep 2026, 12:15– 1:15pm
Event Ngā kaupapa motuhake
This magical 40-minute ballet is the perfect introduction to the world of dance, offering children and their whānau (families) a free and unforgettable live theatre experience. Dance workshops also on offer provide a unique opportunity for children to learn ballet with RNZB Dance Educators, with te reo Māori, NZSL, and relaxed sessions available.
Sat 12 Sep 2026, 10.30am–3.15pm
Sun 13 Sep 2026, 10.30am–3.15pm
Event Ngā kaupapa motuhake
Zoom in on the artworks and stories in Toi Art, with a 15-minute tour guided by Te Papa’s knowledgeable hosts.
Wednesdays and Sundays, 11 to 11.15am
Event Ngā kaupapa motuhake
Save the date for Wellington’s premier black-tie fundraising evening, the Te Papa Foundation Gala.
Sat 14 Nov 2026, 6.30pm to 11.30pm
Event Ngā kaupapa motuhake
