Auckland War Memorial Museum (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Auckland War Memorial Museum?
What makes it 92% Kids-Friendly: Children under 15 enter free and can watch the volcano simulation, try Imaginarium science games, attend craft weekends, and picnic on Domain lawns, giving varied, low-cost fun with indoor breaks.
Positives:
- Child-friendly facilities: Stroller access, lifts, and family toilets with change tables on all levels.
- Weekend kid programs: Free storytelling and crafts sessions run on selected weekends in the Imaginarium.
Challenges:
- Crowded galleries: Some popular exhibits get busy midday; quieter early mornings.
- Roof tour limits: Rooftop tours require kids aged 8+ with closed-toe shoes.
- Limited seating: Benches are scarce inside galleries; plan short breaks.
What is Auckland War Memorial Museum?
- A neoclassical museum and war memorial set within Auckland’s historic Domain grounds
- A national repository housing extensive natural history specimens, Pacific and Māori taonga, and wartime archives
- An architectural landmark marrying early 20th-century classical design with contemporary gallery spaces
What is so special about Auckland War Memorial Museum for with kids?
- Interactive Imaginarium with hands-on science for kids
- Rich Māori gallery showcasing a giant war canoe
- Volcano simulation and natural history exhibits
- Weekend crafts and storytelling sessions
- Picnic spots on Domain lawns near playgrounds
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Gives time to explore key galleries and let kids play without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Auckland War Memorial Museum
Imaginarium children's gallery:
Hands-on exhibits let kids explore science and nature.
Tip: Arrive early; spend about 30–45 min to avoid crowds.
He Taonga Māori gallery:
See the giant Totara war canoe and carved treasures.
Tip: Use the child-friendly labels at eye level; ask guides for stories.
Volcano simulation show:
Experience the indoor Volcano Theatre performance.
Tip: Check show times at the front desk and arrive 5 min early.
Domain picnic & play:
Picnic on the lawns and visit nearby playgrounds.
Tip: Bring snacks; use the free Kai Room if it rains.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Auckland War Memorial Museum
- Buy tickets online: Purchase the family pass on the website to skip the ticket queue.
- Arrive at opening: Get there at 10 AM to enjoy quieter galleries and the Imaginarium first.
- Pack a picnic: Use the Kai Room or Domain lawns for a budget-friendly lunch.
Reviews of Auckland War Memorial Museum
daezjn
I would say this museum offers some of the best exhibitions in New Zealand. It features a wonderful collection showcasing Māori art, culture, and New Zealand history- from artefacts, paintings, and carvings to impressive life-sized pieces like the Māori waka (traditional canoe). The museum has also hosted incredible showcases such as the Guo Pei exhibition and, more recently, the DIVA exhibition ...
Jennifer Farhoumand
They discounted my ticket because so many exhibits were closed but I was still disappointed. I really went out of my way to get here from the cbd and there were only a couple of interesting exhibits. Further, I went here on a weekend and experienced a lot of small children screaming and running around. I believe because admission is free for locals and parents were looking for a way to occupy the...
s vivekananda
It is also known as Auckland Museum, and is one of New Zealand's most important museums and war memorials. Its neoclassical building constructed in the 1920s and 1950s, stands on Observatory Hill, the site being the remains of a dormant volcano. Museum collections concentrate on New Zealand history (and especially the history of the Auckland Region), natural history, and military history. Its coll...
Eric Burant
I had a good experience at the war memorial museum, though it was somewhat dampened by the museum being approximately half-shuttered due to long-term repairs being made to the building and galleries. The ticket cost was reduced by 50% to compensate, which seems about right. Highlights included the Auckland exhibit, which was very colourful, progressive, and optimistic while also reflecting on more...
Rose
What an outstanding museum! The style of the building is gorgeous. Inside you are presented with a variety of areas related to New Zealand culture and history. At the time of my visit in late August 2025 , plenty of areas were closed off hopefully by my next visit, they will be open. The highlight for me was the World War level and everything related to our past. Would recommend to anyone who ca...
When is the best time to visit Auckland War Memorial Museum (Auckland, New Zealand)?
On May–June weekends, join free Weekends of Wonder arts and crafts in the Imaginarium; check the museum calendar before you go.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Family admission (2 adults + 2 kids) | NZD 60 |
| Snacks and drinks | NZD 20 |
| Lunch at café | NZD 40 |
| Total Estimated | NZD 120 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Auckland War Memorial Museum
Address: Parnell, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
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About Auckland War Memorial Museum
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+64 9 309 0443Average price
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