Click on the gallery spaces below to read more

Auckland Museum is located in a classical, symmetrical building three storeys high.  A major Museum story is told on each of these floors.  No-where else can you so quickly and compellingly be introduced to the people of the Pacific and New Zealand, and the remarkable flora, fauna and geography of our unique islands.

Ground Floor - Pacific People

The Ground Level tells the story of Pacific People; Maori, Pakeha, the peoples of Oceania and other newcomers.

These spaces examine the diversity of Pacific Island communities and the astonishing beauty of the objects they produced.  The Maori Court houses some of the most significant Maori taonga (treasures) in the world while the other galleries tell the story of Pakeha childhood.  Also on this floor are Encounter and Landmarks:  two galleries devoted to New Zealand and International design and decorative arts and the special exhibitions hall in the Atrium.

Level 1 - Natural History

The Natural History galleries are all situated on Level 1.  They tell New Zealands evolutionary story and describe our unique environment from mountain top to the ocean depths.

Completing our Natural history story is Volcanoes, the highly interactive permanent gallery examining their scientific and human impact.

The child centred Weird & Wonderful gallery is closed for renovations until December 2012.

Level 2 - New Zealands War Stories

In our short history warfare has played a major role in shaping New Zealands identity.

These galleries, situated on Level 2, tell the story of New Zealands involvement in wars from the New Zealand Wars to East Timor.  On the walls of the Sanctuary and Hall of Memories are inscribed all the names of New Zealanders from the Auckland Province who died in these wars.

Level 2 also houses the Auckland Museum Library, one of the most significant heritage libraries in New Zealand.  The Pictorial Gallery and Auckland 1866, a replica colonial streetscape are also located on this level.  The Museums auditorium is located here, where the public can hear lectures, recitals or performances.

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