MUSEUM OF NEW ZEALAND, TE PAPA TONGAREWA
Picture this – you woke your kids up early in the morning. You set them up for a day exploring the heart of Wellington. Then, with eyes filled with excitement and anticipation, they asked, “Dad, where are we going?” With equal enthusiasm you answered, “We are going to the Museum”. Expect long faces then they’ll look away and say, “Museum? Booooring!”
Well, that is true but there are exceptions – and Te Papa Tongarewa is one of them. Typical museums have long stairs leading to the entrance, huge pillars and statues, old buildings, pale lights, etc. But the Museum of Te Papa Tongarewa in Wellington can only be described as modern. Just outside the building, you’ll be greeted with contemporary arts.
As you get nearer, you’d notice that the architecture and aesthetics of the building is very pleasant and welcoming. At this point, your kids’ reluctance is now replaced with eagerness and curiosity. And, having seen the museum myself for several times, I can assure you that the museum will not disappoint.
As you enter, you wouldn’t feel that you are inside a museum at all. The high ceiling, large floor areas, open spaces, modern interior and more, sets it apart from your usual museum. When you finally get inside and start exploring the place you’d notice that the displays are very innovative and fun. There are plenty of interactive displays that stimulates you senses which makes learning enjoyable.
It’s not just the displays though – the use of technology is equally remarkable. There are flat screens everywhere. The lighting and sound effects sets the mood and keeps you in tune to what you are looking at. There are plenty of buttons to press to keep your kids interested. It’s just like entering into a different dimension each time you enter a different section of the building.
Don’t forget to visit The Marae, too, while you are there as there is always something exciting happening there. Be it concerts, lectures, recital, or haka exhibition, this special section is always full of surprises.
Can you ever think of a more fun way to appreciate New Zealand’s artistic, historical, scientific and cultural evolution? The best part is – most of the area within the museum is for free. There are, however, some displays and exhibits (usually travelling displays) that ask for reasonable fees.
TIPS: There are plenty of displays that allow photography… so snap, snap, and snap your heart out. There is a baggage and coat counter, Leave your heavy stuffs there as you’d need to walk light to be able to cover a wider area. Don’t try to explore the place in a single day if you’re schedule permits. There are also guided tours with a very reasonable fee. Spare some time to explore the seascape just outside the museum.
Article: PinoyStop
Photos: Amateur Snaps!
Address: 55 Cable St., Wellington
Open every day of the year, including all public holidays.
Hours: 10am−6pm, and 10am−9pm on Thursdays.
Admission: Free entry, though charges apply to some short-term exhibitions and activities.
For more info, visit Museum of New Zealand, Te Papa Tongarewa’s Official Website.
