Auckland War Memorial Museum

If you need a break from the plenitude of outdoor activities, spend a day inside and marvel at New Zealand’s multi-cultural history or get in touch with our countries touching War stories at the Auckland War Museum.

The Auckland ‘War’ Museum is one of the most iconic Auckland buildings, constructed in the neo-classicist style, and sitting on a grassed plinth in Auckland Domain with some fine views of the city and harbour.

Founded in 1852 in a two-room farm cottage on Grafton Road, moved to its current site in 1929 after funds were raised to combine a war memorial with a museum and is considered one of New Zealand’s finest heritage buildings.

Originally established with ethnology and natural history collections, the Museum´s collecting interests have evolved over the years to include military history, social history, New Zealand flora and fauna and the decorative arts. The Museum holds what is considered the finest collection of Maori and Pacific artefacts in the world.

The Museum tells the story of New Zealand, its place in the Pacific and its people. The Museum is a war memorial for the province of Auckland and holds one of New Zealand’s top three heritage libraries.

There are always interesting local and international exhibits on show, as well as engaging experiences for children by exploring cultures, arts, science and the environment.

Childrens Gallery – Auckland Museum