Wellington City and Sea Museum

Great kids activities – the interactive ship is very realsitic

The much loved Wellington City and Sea Museum (now renamed The Wellington Museum) is one of the most interesting museums in the world. It is equally historic as its location: the notable Bond Store in Jervois Quay, Wellington. The Bond Store building holds outstanding historical and cultural heritage significance to New Zealand. As the name implies, the Museum of Wellington City and Sea focuses on the rich maritime history as well as the social and cultural legacy of Wellington.

Although the museum’s exhibitions are steeped in history, this is not a boring affair. All exhibits are enhanced with exciting elements. There are interactive exhibits, special holographic displays and recreational activities to keep you engaged.

General admission to the Museum of Wellington City And Sea is free. This is an excellent choice for a day tour for all visitors to New Zealand, especially families. The entire museum is wheelchair accessible.

Additionally, there are specialised paying activities and tours available. The Ship ’n Chip Tour takes you on a lovely voyage to explore Wellington’s harbour and Matiu/Somes Island. Tails & Rails is a guided tour of both the City and Sea Museum and the Cable Car Museum. The Tails & Rails tour also includes a ride on The Wellington Cable Car. Personalised museum tours are also available for large groups.

The first floor of the three story museum houses an interactive exhibition gallery. But even more impressive is the spectacularly tall screen, spread over all three floors. On this towering screen, films retelling Wellington’s city and sea history are dramatically displayed.

A memorial documentary of the 1968 Wahine Ferry Disaster is screened on the second floor. The Wahine Ferry Disaster is a sad and tragic event in Wellington’s history; many lives perished when the ferry sank at the entrance of the harbour. On the third floor is the Māori myths and legends show, A Millennium Ago. This show is very popular with visitors. It is essentially a dramatisation of the stories of the New Zealand Māori through the use of holograms. Do spend the time to see these shows, they are both interesting and educational.

Free WiFi is available to all visitors at the museum. There are also several cafes within metres, most offering beautiful views of the harbour and surrounding city.

The Museum of Wellington City And Sea is smaller than most major museums. Thus, there are no big crowds resulting in a truly intimate tour and the opportunity to enjoy its presentations at a more leisurely pace. The exhibitions are excellently done and will capture your interest from beginning to end. Be sure to visit the museum to experience the fascinating history of Wellington’s city and sea.