The 10 Best History Museums in New Zealand, New Zealand

From June 2020, Bibleworld is open by appointment only. Visit our website to book an appointment - www.bibleworld.org.nz Bibleworld Museum and Discovery Centre is an enjoyable and interactive museum for adults and children to learn about the ancient world in which the Biblical events took place. We have a great range of scale models, ancient artefacts, replicas and hands on activities for all ages.

Fuel your imagination as you walk around Hawkes Bay’s largest Hand’s-on Interactive Museum. It’s a fascinating, family-friendly place, a place where children of all ages can have fun while learning. You can immerse yourself in an Aladdin’s Cave of technology, science and history. Explore our large collection of vintage machines, gadgets, or simply take a trip down memory lane while playing in the arcade, or phoning a friend the old fashioned way.

The Plains Railway & Historical Museum was founded by the Ashburton Railway & Preservation Society in 1971 to preserve the Mid-Canterbury regions past. This is home to Historic Steam Loco's: Ja1260, K88 and A64 plus a collection of shunters. A 2.5 kilometre vintage railway features amongst a recreated village, complete with replica and authentic buildings and a vast rural history display ranging from horse drawn gigs and wagons to tractors. Open days commence from September to May, check our Website or Facebook page for operating days/hours and prices. Entry to the Complex is via Donation. Working Voluntary Members are onsite 6 days a week, and will show you through the complex if its not an official operating day. Also onsite is The Ashburton Fire Museum which has the largest Private Collection of Vintage Fire Vehicles/Equipment and more in NZ. Find us on Facebook: The Plains Railway & Historical Museum

NZ Warbirds At Ardmore provides an opportunity to the public to get close to the operational and static aircraft of the Association. Such aircraft on display include ex- military and vintage aircraft such as: -North American T-6 Harvards -Curtis P-40-N Kittyhawk -North American P-51-D Mustang -Supermarine Spitfire Tr.9 -McDonnell Douglas A-4K Skyhawk -deHavilland Tiger Moth -Percival Proctor -Aermacchi MB339C -Royal Aircraft Factory B.E.2 -Bristol Scout -Fokker Dr.1 and many others. The visitor center presents flying memorabilia and RNZAF squadron history as well as an extensive scale model collection and aviation library resource. NZ Warbirds At Ardmore is operated by the New Zealand Warbirds Association which is the national umbrella body responsible for the safe management of the operating environment for ex- military and vintage aircraft in New Zealand.

Learn about our history by taking part in it. Take a tour of the visual tale of our town from the rough-sawn Whitestone beginnings to the polished and finely worked grandeur of our facades that still exist today. Partake of Victorian pastimes or boldly go beyond the curtains to encounter our colourful past. Leisurely repose oneself in the sumptuous surrounds of our parlour.

A unique record of the military history of Rhodesia (now called Zimbabwe) from 1890 to 1980. Displays include and Alouette III helicopter, medals, badges, weapons, uniforms, equipment, shop, souvenirs, library and Memorial Garden. Personal service for every visitor. PLEASE NOTE: 1) We are closed on Public Holidays 2)With sufficient notice we will try and accommodate requests to open by appointment outside normal times/days of operation. Please call the mobile phone number above with your request.

The largest museum of its kind in New Zealand, MOTAT offers a fun, interactive, and educational experience. Explore our fascinating exhibitions telling stories of the history and development of New Zealand transport, technology and Kiwi ingenuity. MOTAT offers exciting School Holiday Experiences with a new theme and additional activities every school holidays. With lots of fun activities for kids to enjoy as well as the regular museum experience, MOTAT is a great choice for a fun day out over the school holidays to keep the whole family entertained. Visit the original Pumphouse, wander through our historic village or ride the heritage tram to our Aviation Display Hall which houses one of the largest aviation collections in the Southern Hemisphere. Kids are well-catered for with interactive examples, hands-on technology zone plus our Tinkering Tots gallery which is designed especially for under 5’s. MOTAT has something for everyone and is known as one of Auckland’s best value attractions. With regular events, school holiday experiences and monthly Live Days, visit our website to find out what is on at MOTAT for your next visit.

Free entry (donations appreciated) where you can experience New Zealand's rich cultural and natural history. See rare Maori artefacts and more than 1,000 paua shells adorning the walls of the famous Paua Shell House. Walk down the Christchurch Street and be transported back in time with the sights and sounds of the city's pioneering days. Discover one of the world's most significant collections from the heroic age of Antarctic exploration and discovery. Regular temporary exhibitions.

Wellington Museum celebrates the people and the events that have shaped the character and soul of the Capital City of New Zealand and it’s region. Visitors are transported to the 1800s, and then explore the city’s metamorphosis. The Ngā Heke exhibition showcases prized taonga, Te Whanganui a Tara (The Great Harbour of Tara), and contemporary work from Māori artists and poets. Reach the top floor and you’ll be greeted by the delightfully bizarre; The Attic, which embraces the more peculiar side of Wellington’s history. Explore, listen, and even time travel. The Museum Store is a gem of a place to get a unique gift for yourself or a loved one, find exquisite New Zealand made memorabilia. The Museum is located at the heart of Wellington’s waterfront, just two minutes from the shopping on Lambton Quay and the iconic cable car. It is free and listed as one of the must-dos while in the world’s coolest little capital.

Discover and experience Maori culture, with daily cultural shows and an internationally significant Maori and Pacific collection to explore, the Auckland Museum is a must see attraction. Housed in an Iconic building within the grounds of a tranquil park, the Auckland Museum is a place to discover and learn about New Zealand's culture and its natural history. Since 1929, the Museum has served as place of remembrance for the many Aucklanders who have sacrificed their lives in war.