This popular Museum will take you back a thousand years and lead you to a vibrant present-day Wellington. The interactive and exciting exhibitions engage visitors of all ages. And best of all, a casual visit is absolutely free.

The Museum opened in November 1999 as a permanent place for Wellington’s social and maritime history. The Museum of Wellington resides in a magnificently restored late 19th century heritage building, located on Queens Wharf right in the heart of the city.

Eight galleries are spread over three levels with access by lift or an open staircase affording easy views of the exhibitions as one ascends. The Ground Floor Bond Store contains ‘Telling Tales - Wellington's 20th century.’ Level 1 houses ‘By the Sea We Live’ and ‘The Wahine Disaster’, plus the Board Room (The von Kohorn Room). Level 2 has Te Whanganui-a-tara ‘Wellington a Century Ago and the hugely popular ‘A Millennium Ago.’

There is plenty of family-focussed fun to be had at the Museum. Children can get free fun sheets and join the History Detective League of Wellington any time they visit. The Museum also offers tailored 45 minute children’s tours which include a story session, balloon & stickers and a meet and greet with “Paddy” our very own larger than life mascot. Tailored tours are $3 per child and can be booked any time that suits you.

Education is a key focus at the Museum with a dedicated educational service available for schools offering a wide choice of highly successful, age-appropriate programmes. Booking is essential.

For distinctive gifts the Museum Shop stocks the very best of New Zealand made craft, jewelery and children’s gifts. There are also specialist books on maritime, Wellington and New Zealand history, art and literature, and children's titles. Staffed by experienced and friendly Museum hosts, the Museum Shop is a unique boutique shopping experience for tourists and locals alike.

The Museum of Wellington is located on Wellington's Waterfront, within easy reach of Lambton Quay and Willis Street. Car parking is available on Queens Wharf and disability parking is available at the Museum's door.

The Museum is managed by the Wellington Museums Trust with major funding support from the Wellington City Council.

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Open 10am - 5pm daily (except Christmas Day)