Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, Wellington

The whole family can get a dynamic and in-depth overview of New Zealand at Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, one of the nation's main cultural institutions. The museum's native name loosely translates as the "Place of Treasures," an apt description for a building featuring six floors of collections that include everything from Maori artifacts and medieval clothing to animal fossils and local arts. With high-tech galleries designed to engage and educate visitors of all ages, the exhibits narrate the history and development of the Pacific Islands. Be sure to walk through the national art collection, and for a hands-on family-oriented experience, head to one of the themed discovery centers. The easiest way to explore the vast galleries is by guided tour--these leave from the second-level info desk several times a day. Quickly create a custom-made itinerary for Wellington using our trip planner.