Explore Auckland War Memorial Museum

Auckland War Memorial Museum, one of New Zealand’s first museums, holds one of New Zealand’s top three heritage libraries and tells the story of New Zealand’s people and it’s place in the Pacific during the war.

With major military and social collections, Auckland War Memorial Museum is a must-visit on any trip to The City of Sails.

History

The current building that Auckland War Memorial Museum resides in was opened in 1929, but the Auckland Museum’s collections and exhibits, of which the war memorial forms a part of, began in 1852. In 1867, Aucklanders formed the Auckland Philosophical Society, later renamed the Auckland Institute. Within a few years, the society merged with the museum, and Auckland Institute and Museum was the organisation's name until 1996.

With the current building considered to be one of the finest Greco-Roman buildings in the Southern Hemisphere, it’s preservation is considered one of utmost importance by the New Zealand Historic Places Trust. Considering the fact that New Zealand is the youngest country in the world, buildings such as these are few and far between, and this one is somewhat of a hidden gem. In fact, some visit the museum for the architectural significance alone!

Exhibits

The top floor of the War Memorial houses a plethora of permanent galleries and exhibits that showcase various aspects of the war and tell the stories of those who were in it.

Choose to explore the Holocaust Gallery, the Colours Gallery, Pou Kanohi New Zealand at War Gallery, the Pou Maumahara Memorial Discovery Centre, the World War One and World War Two Hall of Memories, and so much more. 

While exploring these galleries is a sombre experience, it is important to learn about the past and honour those whose lives were lost in the quest for our freedom.

Tickets

General admission tickets are free for Auckland residents and Members, and by donation for New Zealand residents. Become a member here for $50 a year and get unlimited free entry to paid exhibitions at Auckland Museum, invitations to exclusive members-only events, and discounts at the Museum Store, Tuitui Museum Bistro & Café, and 1929 Espresso Bar.

For international visitors, it costs $28 per adult, $14 per child, and $70 for a family of two children and two adults.

Transport

The museum can be easily accessed from any part of the city by public transport, car, or foot.

A 30-minute walk from the city centre or a 10-minute drive, there is secure undercover paid parking available from 6:30am-6:30pm. 

To plan a journey using Auckland’s public transport, download the AT Mobile App via the App Store or Google Play.