Review: Te Papa Tongarewa, Wellington
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Since merging the collections of Aotearoa New Zealand’s National Museum and National Art Gallery in 1998, Te Papa Tongarewa in Wellington has welcomed well over 30 million visitors.
The name, in its full Māori interpretation, means ‘our container of treasured things and people that spring from mother earth in New Zealand’. It’s an apt title. Te Papa is indeed packed with wonderful things and personal stories, and continues to delight and inspire New Zealanders and international visitors alike with its mix of art and artefacts. And whether it’s your first or umpteenth visit, there’s always something new to discover.
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I remember visiting Te Papa for the first time in the early 2000s and being astounded by the colossal squid preserved under glass. I had never seen anything like it. A replica of Burt Munro’s speed record-breaking motorcycle — The World’s Fastest Indian — was on also display at the time, and I was astonished that something so small could reach such incredible speeds. Then there was the shaking house that simulated the Edgecumbe earthquake of 1987. As a ten-year-old who had experienced the real event, it was not something I wanted re-live. However, Te Papa is a place that examines the entirety of our shared experience, and powerful moments like this one resonate throughout the museum.
Don’t miss seeing the permanent Te Tiriti o Waitangi: Ngā tohu kotahitanga (The Treaty of Waitangi: Signs of a Nation) exhibition. Te Tiriti (The Treaty) is the founding document of modern New Zealand, and much has been said about the differences between the versions signed by the Māori and British Crown in their respective languages. This exhibition offers an insight into the challenges and benefits the treaty has presented to the people of New Zealand over time.
Te Taiao (Nature) is another of the museum’s must-see sections. This permanent exhibition has something for everyone: from displays relating to New Zealand’s unique topography and wildlife, to the quake house and giant squid I mentioned earlier. You’ll also learn how Mātauranga Māori (indigenous knowledge) complements western science in many wonderful ways. There are lots of interactive activities, and fascinating exhibits from every corner of the country.
The exhibition that impressed me most on a more recent visit was Gallipoli: The Scale of Our War. It’s been hugely popular since it opened in 2015 and when you see it, you’ll understand why. It shares the story of the World War I campaign through the eyes of eight ordinary New Zealanders embroiled in the conflict. Created by special effects masters Weta Workshop using cutting edge technology, the giant figures are incredibly lifelike. Their large dimensions accentuate the details of each moment depicted, and you can’t help but walk away with a true sense of the sacrifice and tragedy that defined the Gallipoli landings. The exhibition was due to close in 2019, but has been extended until 2022.
Te Papa is spread over six levels, and if you’re a first-time visitor I would suggest setting aside at least half a day to do it any justice. The museum brings together under one roof much of what’s important to, and valued by the people of New Zealand. It’s a treasure chest like no other.
Te Papa Tongarewa is open every day of the year, except Christmas Day. General entry is free, but there may be a charge to see visiting exhibitions. The museum is located on the waterfront — just a short walk from the city centre. Te Papa offers several guided tours, which are a great way of getting the most from your visit. They can be pre-booked online.
For more information, visit www.tepapa.govt.nz.
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Additional images: Bigstock
About the writer
Hailing from Aotearoa New Zealand, Karllie Clifton is an avid midlife traveller and blogger who loves an adventure. In 2015, Karllie left her teaching profession, sold her home, and spent the next three years travelling full time. It sparked a real passion for budget solo travel, which she now loves to inspire others to do. In recent years, Karllie has visited more than twenty countries across three continents. She loves hiking and anything to do with the ocean.
