A magnificent new $12 million nature zone, which will take visitors on a “bold and immersive journey through the natural world of Aotearoa New Zealand”, is opening at Wellington’s Te Papa museum in May.
The 1,400-square-metre zone will be a permanent addition and is the biggest change to the museum since it opened 21 years ago.
At the heart of the new space will be a “priceless moa egg” – one of only 36 in the world.
Known as Te Taiao Nature, the new area will feature over 1,200 collection items from New Zealand’s natural world, along with dozens of brand-new interactive experiences, from creating your own tsunami to weighing in against a giant moa.
It replaces Te Papa’s previous nature area, which closed in April 2018.
While the exhibition is completely new, two old favourites will return: the colossal squid and a revamped Earthquake House.
Te Papa Chief Executive Geraint Martin says the exhibition ushers in the next generation of the Te Papa experience.
“Twenty one years ago, Te Papa redefined how New Zealanders see themselves and their country, and Te Taiao Nature is the next twist in that Te Papa DNA,” he said.
“This is a brand-new experience, unlike anything else in the world, and one that every New Zealander is going to want to see for themselves.”
Te Papa Chief Executive Geraint Martin
He said the exhibition explores pressing environmental issues like climate change, ocean health, fresh-water quality, and pest eradication.
- READ: PACK YOUR BAGS: 10 reasons to visit New Zealand this year
- READ: INFLIGHT INSTA-STORIES: Air New Zealand is giving away free wi-fi this summer