New Zealand’s national museum is full of art and stories shining a light on darkened corners of the nation’s history, society, and environment. Te Papa (“our place”) tailors their short-term, long-term, and international exhibitions for all ages, making it a popular space for education and discovery among young children and their parents. Te Papa also houses stunning Maori artifacts—such as Te Hau ki Turanga, a faithfully preserved meeting house from precolonial times—and remarkable modern displays, such as John Britten’s speed record–breaking Britten V1000 motorcycle.
A wide range of guided tours are available: Visit the Maori highlights with the help of a Te Papa host, or turn up late and get an abbreviated whirlwind tour of all you need to see. The museum is also a stop on a hop-on hop-off minivan excursion.