Te Papa (Wellington)

Te Papa is a 5 min walk from the YHA and has FREE entry to all exhibition halls J It is a must see while In Wellington as it provides a detailed insight into Maori culture and history with exhibits presented in a series of galleries, which have been developed to encourage a ‘hands on’ approach (this would particularly interest families as there are a range of interactive features throughout the museum including ‘Sheep cam’… don’t ask just check it out). Each level of the museum reveals a dedicated gallery including life on Earth with its realistic animal exhibits spread out around a creatively spaced walkway and an earthquake simulator and one of the few places in the world in which you can check out a giant deep sea squid… moving upstairs there are galleries focused on New Zealand history from imperial rule through war time to the present day and a photographic hall. Maori culture is portrayed strongly through displays of buildings (which you can go in - but remember to take your shoes off!), canoes, pottery, jade and some live performances. The entire museum will keep you entertained for at least ½ day. Highly recommended and if you need a break check out the venison pies at the café - easy to find as the café has an eye-catching motorbike set up at the entrance.