The New Zealand Maritime Museum is where the stories of the people and the sea come to life, offering visitors a chance to explore and engage with New Zealand’s deep maritime heritage.
As one of the most maritime nations in the world, New Zealand’s history is intricately tied to the sea—whether through immigration, trade, innovation, design, or recreation. The museum serves as a hub for these narratives, showcasing them through captivating galleries, special exhibitions, events, heritage sailings, and more.
Home to one of the country’s most significant heritage collections, the museum spans New Zealand’s maritime history—from the Great Pacific Migration over a thousand years ago to the cutting-edge technology and design of the America’s Cup and modern yachting.
Whether you’re an experienced sailor or have never stepped on a boat, the New Zealand Maritime Museum offers stories and treasures that resonate with everyone.
Located in Auckland’s lively Viaduct Basin, overlooking the Waitematā Harbour, the museum is open daily except for Christmas Day.
NZ Maritime Museum Exhibitions & Events
Head out on one of our heritage vessels on the Waitematā Harbour. Charters sailings available – perfect for groups and events.
Guided Tours
Join our friendly guides as they bring to life the stories of Aotearoa New Zealand’s voyaging history. Group tours depart regularly from the ticket desk or can be booked in advance
School Holiday Activities
Join us for children’s theatre, Museum trails, craft workshops and harbour sailings!
Landfalls
Navigate the pioneering voyages of discovery, settlement and trade that shaped the early history of New Zealand.
New Beginnings
Meet the early immigrants who braved the ocean to arrive, survive and thrive in a remote and inhospitable land.
Blue Water, Black Magic
A tribute to Sir Peter Blake: America’s Cup and New Zealand’s remarkable yachting success.
Edmiston Gallery
Temporary exhibitions relating to maritime art and the expression of our spirit as a seafaring nation.
Kiwis and the Coast
Discover how New Zealand’s unique bond with the ocean has shaped the Kiwi identity.
Our Gifted Maori Name
The New Zealand Maritime Museum is proud of our Maori name: Hui Te Ananui A Tangaroa.
Gifted by Sir Hugh Kawharu, our name means “the dwelling of Tangaroa”. It is based on the ancient Maori and Polynesian understanding of Tangaroa, the creator of the waves and life within the oceans whose breathing makes the tides ebb and flow. In M?ori lore, Tangaroa makes his home beneath the sea and is vividly described in traditional whakairo (wood carvings) and ta moko (living skin art).
This personification of the sea and its elements has connotations of the combined power of waves, wind, moon and stars – the forces of nature that guide all mariners past, present and future.
