Te Papa Tongarewa-Museum of New Zealand

Te Papa Tongarewa-Museum of New Zealand Review

This museum remains one of New Zealand's major attractions. It provides an essential introduction to the country's people, cultures, landforms, flora, and fauna. Unusual exhibits include a simulated earthquake and a visit to a marae (Maori meetinghouse), where a powhiri (Maori greeting involving song and speeches) welcomes you. You can explore an outdoor forest area with moa (the extinct, ostrichlike native bird), bones, and glowworms or delve into the stories of New Zealand's early European migrants. In the Time Warp area, a sort of theme park where most activities have additional fees, you can simulate a bungy jump or leap three generations ahead to Wellington, 2055. Four discovery centers allow children to weave, hear storytelling, and learn a bit of Maori through song.