Welcome to the refreshed Stevenson Discovery Centre, our hands-on space for discovering the natural world.
Examine a fossil, get close to some intriguing animals, and befriend a glowing pathfinder bug. Or just settle down in the nest with a book.
Got a curly question? Ask one of the Weird and Wonderful visitor hosts or use the iPad at the research hub.
So come on in to Weird and Wonderful and get exploring in this incredible space especially designed for children and families.
WHAT'S NEW IN THE GALLERY
Along with your old favourites we’ve got some great new experiences in Weird and Wonderful:
Glowing pathfinder bugs – A virtual bug world. An exciting addition to the gallery where children can befriend a glowing bug.
The Nest – children can climb up stairs into a nest. Feel as comfy as a bird in this quiet space. Chat with a friend, learn about birds & nests or simply snuggle up with a book.
iPad research table – iPads loaded with app’s allow children to explore the natural world and manipulate their way through a maze of online activities.
Laboratory – hands-on activity space for creative activities and experiments. A variety of thematic programmes changing in and out regularly.
Colouring window – a large summer garden scene graphic with coloured markers for children to decorate over and over again.
Weird and Wonderful object trail – 13 interactive labels connected with some of Weird and Wonderful’s most interesting exhibits. Adventure around the gallery, open the doors and discover more!
New gallery interpretation – graphics and AV’s. Questions, answers and mysteries!
Our friendly Weird and Wonderful hosts have also devised some cool activities for the kids over the summer months. Get on board the Polar Express, try your hand at some creative crafts or join Space in Time with Einstein.
An unforgettable cultural experience - enjoy a warm, vibrant and entertaining glimpse of Maori culture culminating in a high-energy spine-tingling version of our most celebrated dance, the world famous haka. » Find out more
Pick up the Hillary Trail from our information desks which will guide you and your family on an interactive tour leading up to the exhibition The Summit: Hillary’s Enduring Legacy on the top floor. » Find out more
Ignite children’s creativity by exploring objects and creatures in these art classes. Drawing from our collection, artists Sandra Morris and Nina Rycroft explore art on a variety of media. » Find out more
Join us onsite at the Matariki Art Market, Sunday Screening, and Nga Korero Tataki, evening lecture, and offsite at our Wananga, series as we make connections between collections and their relevance in Te Ao Maori. » Find out more
Often wondered who works at the Museum? What goes on behind the scenes? Join us in a relaxing and fun interactive session where staff members talk about their roles at Auckland Museum. » Find out more
