Free museum entry for New Zealanders and people living in New Zealand

The Colossal SquidTe Ngū Tipua

Meet the only colossal squid on display in the world. Find her in the Te Taiao | Nature exhibition.

When | Āhea

Permanent exhibition

Where | Ki hea

Te Taiao | Nature, Level 2

Cost | Te utu

Free with museum entry

Ages | TE REANGA

All ages

Allow | ME WHAKARITE

15 minutes

Accessibility | E wātea ana ki
  • Wheelchair accessible

Find out more about accessibility at Te Papa

It’s the biggest colossal squid ever caught! Find it in the Ngā Kaitiaki | Guardians area in Te Taiao | Nature.

Colossal squid, the most massive invertebrates on the planet, make their home in the cold depths of the Southern Ocean.

Watch a video about how our specimen got from Antarctica to Te Papa, and learn about its bizarre anatomy – touch models of its beak and a tentacle hook.

Download a map of Te Taiao | Nature (2.03 MB)

Guide to the collosal squid in New Zealand Sign Language

Discover moreKia kitea ake

  • Scientist with colossal squid

    Colossal squid at Te Papa

    We have one colossal squid on display, but did you know we have three colossal squid specimens in our collection?

  • ""

    The life and habits of a colossal squid

    We know very little about the colossal squid’s life history, diet, or behaviour, because they live at extreme depths in freezing water, but here's what we do know...

Sponsored by

Get our newsletter

Stay in the loop about our wide range of events and exhibitions.

REGISTER

Follow us

Follow our social media channels for a glimpse behind the scenes at Te Papa.

Join Friends of Te Papa

Friends enjoy benefits and discounts including invitations to previews and private viewings.

JOIN

Donate

Find out how you can support Te Papa through a donation or bequest by becoming a patron.

DONATE