There is a range of permanent and changing family friendly exhibitions at MOTAT.  Your admission includes entry to all of these:

• Te Puawānanga Science and Technology Centre is MOTAT’s newest science and technology experience for kids. Te Puawānanga is all about interaction and discovery for all ages. There are three spaces to enjoy:

  • Tāne Mahuta in Te Tumu – Play Space for under 5s

  • Te Puku Science Space for whānau and children aged 5 – 12 years to expolore science through interactive experiences about light, energy, matter and more.

  •  Te Waha – Innovation Space for everything from after-school clubs, science demonstrations and collection displays. Take on self-led design challenges or watch and learn about some of the best tech currently in Aotearoa.

• The multi-award winning MOTAT Taiwhanga Rererangi – Aviation Hall is a collection of recreational, commercial and military aircraft that celebrates the evolution of New Zealand aviation, since 1911. Take a journey through one of the most significant aviation collections in the Southern Hemisphere. The Aviation Display Hall is located at M2 in Meola Road.

• MOTAT’s Whakawhiti Pārongo – Telecommunications  is a permanent exhibition offering a unique hands-on experience of telecommunication equipment and technology. It’s always fun explaining rotary phones to those only familiar with modern phones and mobiles.

• Kutarere – Scotter is a permanent exhibition where kids can discover what makes this two-wheeled-vehicle so much fun. Kutarere – Scooter takes you on a ride through the technology, fashion and culture changes from the 60s to today.

• Kia Atamai – Get Smart is an interactive permanent exhibition showcasing the growth of computing, gaming and communications and how the powerful machines we carry in our pockets have become faster, cheaper and smarter.

• Tereina Iti – Model Railway has been a MOTAT favourite for 40 years that is constantly evolving. As they say a model railway is never finished, so come and see what’s new each time you visit.

• Whakahohoro – Accelerate: Driving New Zealand delves into the past, present and future of New Zealand’s love affair with vehicles and technology. Revved up, fully charged, and challenging the status quo! Take a drive through New Zealand’s love affair with vehicles and technology. This one’s for the petrol heads, tech enthusiasts, history buffs, and future thinkers alike.

• The 1870’s Whare Mapu Pumphouse is an important landmark recognised by Heritage New Zealand as a Category 1 historic place. Experience the sounds, heat, smell and power when the boiler operates Wednesday – Sunday and during special events. The Beam Engine is a live demonstration on selected days across the year.

• The Whare Tinei Ahi – The Fire Station permanent exhibition has lots of big red fire trucks on display from early horse drawn pumps to V8-powered fire engines. Kids will enjoy discovering the equipment and history of these everyday heroes.

• Te Pā o MOTAT – MOTAT Village brings alive Pakeha settler life. You will be taken back in time as you explore the original cottages, schoolhouse, chapel, washhouse and forge.