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New Zealand/Things to Do in Auckland, with kids

MOTAT Museum of Transport and Technology (with kids)

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How Kids-Friendly is MOTAT Museum of Transport and Technology?

90%Kids-Friendly
View Map

What makes it 90% Kids-Friendly: Hands-on science centre, climb-in helicopters, steam-train Live Days and unlimited tram rides keep under-12s learning and active, while nearby toilets and food rooms ease supervision for parents.

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Reviews4.5/ 5
(from 4,571 reviews)
Gabriel's Day Out at MOTAT Museum of Transport and Technology || AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND
10 min
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Gabriel's Day Out at MOTAT Museum of Transport and Technology || AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND
5.9K views • 2 years ago
MERRY CHRISTMAS l MOTAT Christmas Lights l December 2023
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MERRY CHRISTMAS l MOTAT Christmas Lights l December 2023
3.1K views • 2 years ago
MOTAT (Mueseum of Transport and Technology)... Auckland.. Lets goo... #prableenkour
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MOTAT (Mueseum of Transport and Technology)... Auckland.. Lets goo... #prableenkour
2.3K views • 2 years ago
MOTAT Walking Tour | Museum of Transport and Technology Auckland | 4K
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MOTAT Walking Tour | Museum of Transport and Technology Auckland | 4K
1.1K views • 1 year ago
Our trip to MOTAT ( Museum of Transport & Technology) - Auckland, New Zealand 🇳🇿
9 min
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Our trip to MOTAT ( Museum of Transport & Technology) - Auckland, New Zealand 🇳🇿
1.1K views • 2 years ago
PRESERVED WELLINGTON TRAM 257 - A Guided Tour at MOTAT (Museum of Transport and Technology) Auckland
6 min
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PRESERVED WELLINGTON TRAM 257 - A Guided Tour at MOTAT (Museum of Transport and Technology) Auckland
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Positives:

  • Interactive Learning: Hands-on exhibits let kids experiment with flight controls and simple machines.
  • Spacious Picnic Areas: Wide lawns and shaded benches offer space for breaks and bring-your-own snacks.

Challenges:

  • Uneven Ground: Historic Village paths have gravel and cobblestones—strollers may be bumpy.
  • Busy Live Days: Steam train and workshop demos can draw crowds; plan exhibits around release times.
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🏖️ Explore MOTAT Museum of Transport and Technology with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around MOTAT Museum of Transport and Technology. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

What is MOTAT Museum of Transport and Technology?

  • A 40-acre Auckland museum devoted to the evolution of land, sea and air transport and the technological innovations behind them
  • A repository of heritage trams, early motor vehicles, steam locomotives and vintage aircraft spanning from the 19th century to the present
  • A campus of restored heritage buildings, including an 1877 pump house, alongside modern galleries showcasing static and interactive technology displays

What is so special about MOTAT Museum of Transport and Technology for with kids?

  1. Ride vintage trams across the park
  2. Climb into a real police helicopter
  3. Explore hands-on science and tech exhibits
  4. Print your own souvenir in the letterpress shop
  5. Enjoy free monthly Live Day activities

Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours

Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A 2–3 hour visit lets your family explore key exhibits and ride the tram without rushing younger children.

(View MOTAT Museum of Transport and Technology on Map)

Kids-Friendly Activities in MOTAT Museum of Transport and Technology

Heritage Tram Ride:

Board the vintage tram between Great North Road and Motions Road.

Tip: Catch the first tram at 10 AM to avoid queues and enjoy a round‐trip past Western Springs Park.

Eagle Police Helicopter:

Climb into the retired ‘Eagle’ helicopter in the Aviation Hall.

Tip: Let kids flip the switches and press the buttons for a hands-on experience.

Te Puawānanga Science Centre:

Interact with simple machines and chemical reaction demos.

Tip: Head here right after the tram to beat the midday crowd and secure workstations.

Live Day Activities:

Join monthly Live Days (3rd Sunday) for steam train rides, blacksmith demos and pony-trap rides.

Tip: Check the MOTAT calendar and arrive at 10 AM to join the first steam train departure.

Print Shop Souvenir:

Watch volunteers run letterpress presses and print your own keepsake.

Tip: Visit on Wednesday, Thursday or Sunday when the workshop is in action.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to MOTAT Museum of Transport and Technology

  1. Arrive at Opening: Start at 10 AM to grab prime spots in interactive zones and short tram queues.
  2. Plan with Map: Pick up the site map at the entrance to map a route before kids get tired.
🏖️ Tour MOTAT Museum of Transport and Technology like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in MOTAT Museum of Transport and Technology. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of MOTAT Museum of Transport and Technology

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Kim Seaward

Kim Seaward

Dec 2025

The MOTAT Christmas lights was awesome. Such a nice environment to make it feel like Christmas. Lots of live music, a silent disco, lots of the transport sections open late into the night to see it all in action. Heaps of food trucks. Loved the candy making demo. Gates opened at 8pm but we sought roadside parking at 715, which was a good idea as it filled fast and we still ended up queueing for ha...

Deborah Cotter

Deborah Cotter

Nov 2025

It's been many years since my last visit - wonderful to explore the different buildings and displays of the original site, then to check out the amazing Aviation Hangar Displays in Motat Part 2, by accessing via a free 🚊 return tram ride that runs between the properties = all included in the price of your ticket!

Mark Fookes

Mark Fookes

Aug 2025

The aviation section is fantastic, the aircraft are in great shape and Preston an excellent environment with knowledgeable staff. The other section on cars, communication, etc is a bit more basic and more tailored to kids and school groups.

Joe Ninety

Joe Ninety

Jul 2025

Very good place for the family to spend the day. Plenty of parking and some great activities including the tram ride between the MOTAT locations. The aircraft in the hangers are wonderful as well as the steam pumping stations. There is even some old cars and a R100 rotary Mazda engined car for the lads.

Gary Brydon

Gary Brydon

Jun 2025

After not having been there for over 40 years I was very disappointed. The Automotive side of things was all but nonexistent. The old buses and machines all gone except for one trolley bus . The science centre was interesting but it wasn’t if you know what I mean. The only up side was the aviation centre. 10 out of 10 for that.

When is the best time to visit MOTAT Museum of Transport and Technology (Auckland, New Zealand)?

In summer (Dec–Feb) bring hats and sunscreen for outdoor tram waits. In winter (Jun–Aug) pack a raincoat as some tram stops and outdoor exhibits have little shelter.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Auckland on Trip.com

Explore These Activities

Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Family Pass (2 adults + 2 kids)NZD 45
Lunch at wharekai caféNZD 40
Ice creams and snacksNZD 15
Total EstimatedNZD 100

Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve

Map of MOTAT Museum of Transport and Technology

Address: 805 Great North Road, Western Springs, Auckland 1022, New Zealand

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About MOTAT Museum of Transport and Technology

Opening Hours

Monday:10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Tuesday:10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Wednesday:10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Thursday:10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Friday:10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Saturday:10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Sunday:10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Website

Official Website

Phone Number

+64 9 815 5800

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