If your idea of a day out involves a decent dose of culture, put New Zealand Maritime Museum on your radar. Located in the heart of Auckland’s vibrant Viaduct Basin, the must-visit museum celebrates our island nation. Here you’ll discover fascinating and interactive exhibitions, a lively events calendar, and the opportunity to sail the harbour on a unique vessel. The best bit? Entry is free for Auckland locals—see you there.
Set Sail On The Waitematā Harbour
There’s no better way to learn about ocean voyaging than setting sail around the Waitematā Harbour, and the Maritime Museum offers daily sailings on gram-worthy heritage vessels. There’s a range of sailing options, from 20-minute rides on New Zealand’s oldest operating steam-powered tug to an hour-long cruise on a heritage scow. Sit back and relax or help the captain hoist the sails as you soak in the views of the city’s skyline, Harbour Bridge, and glistening Waitematā. This is Auckland as you’ve never experienced it before.
Discover The Museum’s Captivating Exhibitions
The Maritime Museum’s exhibitions offer something for everyone. Wander through the Landfalls exhibit to learn about pioneering voyages, including the cleverly designed waka used to navigate the Pacific. In New Beginnings, you’ll hear the stories of immigrants dating back to the 1850s with the opportunity to walk through an interactive rocking cabin, while Kiwis And The Coast showcases our love of the ocean. Our fave part is the 1950s replica beach shop and bach.
Get Free Intel On A Guided Tour
Take your visit to the next level with a free guided tour. You’ll be accompanied by one of the museum’s experienced guides as they uncover fascinating stories that will have you totally captivated. Get the low-down on the much-contended America’s Cup, the utter genius of traditional Pacific voyaging, and the experience of early European immigrants. The hour-long tour kicks off at 10.30am from Thursday to Sunday. Book online to secure your spot.
Visit For A Crafternoon
Visit on a Sunday and you’ll time your visit with the Maritime Museum’s aptly named, Make Days. Running from 10.30am till 2pm, the drop-in craft session allows you to make and take home a free, whānau-friendly masterpiece. There’s a new project every month with previous Make Days featuring fish badges and pirate coins. Click here to discover what craft you could be making this month.
There’s Something For The Whole Whānau
The young—and the young at heart—will love the interactive games of the Blue Water Black Magic exhibition. Paying homage to the America’s Cup, the exhibition allows you to design and race your own super yacht. The museum’s jam-packed events calendar also includes special sailings, film screenings, school holiday activities, and more. Tamariki can sign up for the Mini Māui Club to receive a free birthday sailing experience and other perks. Find out what’s on here.
Get your culture fix at the New Zealand Maritime Museum. The fun day out offers captivating exhibitions and events, as well as the opportunity to set sail on the Waitematā Harbour. To find out more and start planning your visit, head over here.
Image credit:
Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by New Zealand Maritime Museum and proudly endorsed by The Urban List. To find out more about who we work with and why read our editorial policy here.