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Planning what to do with your tamariki these school holidays doesn’t have to be hard. Te Papa offers a mix of free and paid experiences that make for a day of learning, creativity, and discovery for kids of all ages.

You can easily spend a full day at Te Papa. Here’s how to plan it so you don’t miss the best bits.

Your simple school holiday plan

🕘 9am: Ease into the day

Before the crowds arrive, start slow with a hot chocolate at the café . It’s a great way to kick off your day (and much quieter than lunchtime).

🕙 10am: Dive into something unforgettable

Grab your tickets and head straight to Breathe | Mauri Ora: An Immersive Journey into Nature by Marshmallow Laser Feast – This is the must-do experience these holidays, and for good reason.

Expect to spend close to an hour exploring awe-inspiring video installations, where towering trees, flowing tides, and cosmic wonders unfold before your eyes. This is an unforgettable experience that you and your whānau will talk about long after you leave the gallery.

Insider tip: This space fills up fast – book your tickets in advance, and for a quieter experience, visit first thing in the morning or late afternoon.

Breathe | Mauri Ora is a ticketed exhibition; book early to avoid disappointment.

🕚 11am: Explore and learn with an interactive mobile guide

Make your way through our nature exhibition zone, Te Taiao | Nature, and try The Path of Māui mobile guide.

This is a great one for curious kids who have been to Te Papa before – they’ll explore what makes the wildlife in Aotearoa so special, all while learning how to become kaitiaki (protectors) for the natural world.

🕛 12pm: Take a break (without the rush)

Lunchtime can get busy at Te Papa Cafe, so you could grab a quick snack and if the weather is good, head outside to the amphitheatre. Or wait it out and explore another exhibition!

Insider tip: Avoid the queues and upgrade your lunch with Eat Your Art Out High Tea – a special treat to enjoy with your tamariki.

🕐 1pm: Get creative in the National Art Collection

Head up to Toi Art on levels 4 and 5 to discover new artists, get creative in the whānau-friendly Art Studio, or spend time with a favourite artwork.

The Papa Toi | Art Studio is a hidden gem that gives tamariki the space to explore and create with shadow play, story wheels, and lots more.

Take a break in the comfy couches and recharge while the kids get stuck in.

🕑 2pm: Choose your own adventure

From here, follow your kids’ interests:

• Revisit old favourites like the colossal squid and earthquake house in Te Taiao | Nature
• Explore Gallipoli: The Scale of Our War for those learning about Aotearoa New Zealand history at school
• Or, for older kids, check out our newest exhibition, Slow Burn: Women and Photography (parental guidance recommended; contains nudity)

🕒 3pm: Keep the creativity and curiosity going

Before you leave, pop into the Te Papa Store’s kids’ shop. From books and puzzles to plushies and toys, it’s full of thoughtful finds for tamariki.

As you head out, your tamariki will likely want to stop by the iconic rolling ball, made from 1.4-billion-year-old rock. While they play, you might choose to leave a small donation with a tap of your card if you’ve enjoyed your visit.

Getting there

• Driving: Parking is available, but it fills up quickly. Arrive early.
• Public transport: Catch a bus to Courtenay Place and take a short walk.
• Active travel: Bike, scooter, or skateboard – there are plenty of racks available to store securely (just ask a host inside).

Quick tips for a smoother day

• Afternoons are often quieter than mornings.
• Lockers are also available for hire if you want to store bags and explore hands-free.
• Don’t miss out on Breathe | Mauri Ora (this exhibition closes Mon 27 Apr).
• Plan your visit around special events:
  • Whānau Day, 11 April: a full day to connect with Te Papa collections
  • New Zealand Symphony Orchestra: The Tortoise and the Hare, 17 and 18 April

And remember – entry to Te Papa is free for New Zealanders and people living in New Zealand! Open every day, it’s an easy win for a school holiday outing – rain or shine.

Plan your visit, pick your must-sees, and make a day of it.

Content provided by Te Papa