While visiting Wellington, New Zealand, I took a Royal Princess shore excursion, which included a tour of Te Papa, the country’s national museum. Te Papa means ‘the treasure box’ in the Māori language.
Te Papa, the largest museum in the nation, is renowned for being bicultural, scholarly, innovative, and fun. Its 36,000-square-meter repository of collections is six stories high and is home to more than 800,000 artworks, objects, and specimens.
Our tour kicked off with a lively guide who delved into the rich Māori culture. I was captivated by the Polynesian journey to New Zealand and Māori history, which came to life with a scaled-down model of their traditional boat.
He also explained the Māori community house. A modern version is in the museum for special ceremonies and meetings. It is living history.
After our hour with the guide, we had another hour to explore.
Because I had visited Gallipoli in Turkey, the site of a savage WWI battle, I wanted to see the ‘Gallipoli: The Scale of Our War’ exhibit.
The stark realities of war follow eight ordinary New Zealanders through the Gallipoli campaign, using their stories and words to explain this harrowing event. Models of the men, at 2.4 times human size, reflect the monumental impact of war. The exhibition combines technology with crucial historical storytelling.
I only wish I had longer to explore. From what I saw, I am sure the entire museum is excellent.
Entry to Te Papa is free.
Click here for more information on the museum and here for more information on Royal Princess and Princess Cruises.
