Explore Wellington Museum

Wellington, otherwise known as The Coolest Little Capital in the World, is a metropolitan city full of art, culture, coffee, food, and all things hipster.

With the world-renowned museum of Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa being a high contender on the tourist attraction list, Wellington Museum, located within a beautiful 1892 heritage building on the stunning Wellington waterfront, is sometimes overlooked - but it is well worth the visit.

Explore the maritime history of Wellington, learn about the tragic 1968 Wahine disaster, explore different perspectives, alternative histories, journeys and migrations through various art forms from artists across the country, and so much more.

History

Throughout the 1990’s, Wellington experienced somewhat of a ‘cultural renaissance’. When Te Papa opened, it was decided that a separate museum that solely celebrated the history of Wellington and its stories was needed.

Originally known as the Maritime Museum, located within the original Bond Store and Head Office for the Wellington Harbour Board, after extensive rebuild, conservation, and redevelopment by a team of award-winning designers and architects, it reopened with a new name, and a new purpose - the Museum of Wellington City & Sea. Its mission was to preserve, present and promote Wellington’s social, cultural and maritime heritage through a variety of art forms and exhibits, and continue building on the history of Pōneke - a phonetic Māori translation for ‘Port Nick’, short for ‘Port Nicholson’.

Now one of the most architecturally significant heritage buildings in the country, the Wellington Museum is a national treasure.

Exhibits

With over 10 exhibits showcasing rich cultural heritage, constellation art, and theatre, a walk through Wellington Museum really does feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

Learn about the nautical world of seafarers, explorers, and sailors on their journey across the oceans, experience what it was like living in a sailor’s cabin, listen to historical accounts of momentous decisions made by the Wellington Harbour Board, including the declaration of Pōneke as Aotearoa’s first nuclear-free port, and learn about Māori creation legends through theatrical illusions.

Wherever you go in this beautifully crafted museum, you will come away with a plethora of knowledge and history about The Coolest Little Capital in the World.

Tickets & Transport

The Wellington Museum is entirely free, which is another reason this is a must-visit attraction on any trip to the capital.

Located on the Wellington waterfront, there is no public transport that goes directly to the museum. However, Wellington Railway Station is located about a 10-minute walk from the station along the waterfront.

If you’re catching a public bus, take any bus that goes through Lambton Quay (most of them do), and get off in the centre of the street. Walk directly straight towards the waterfront (a roughly 5-minute walk) and the museum is located on Queens Wharf.