New Zealand Police Museum
Located on the campus of the Royal New Zealand Police College in Porirua, the New Zealand Police Museum tells the real life stories of policing in Aotearoa
Where
Porirua
Contact
Wander through the New Zealand Police Museum and you’ll see the original evidence and artefacts behind some of New Zealand’s most famous events, disasters, and crimes.
Take it at your own pace with a self-guided visit or opt for a paid tour or workshop – either way it’ll open your eyes to New Zealand’s social and political history from a new perspective.
Explore the exhibitions
The New Zealand Police Museum houses a wide array of displays – telling stories of policing excellence and outstanding feats of detection. You’ll uncover more about major historical events such as the Rainbow Warrior bombing, the 1981 Springbok Tour, and the Canterbury earthquakes. And as you stroll through you’ll inspect weapons used by criminals, evidence from murder investigations, police tools and objects.
Situated outside the museum, He matapihi o nehe rā: A window into the past is a must-see for any visitor. This long-term exhibition describes policing in Aotearoa New Zealand in the 19th century and is installed in the original Hastings Police Station building.
A great day out with the kids
The New Zealand Police Museum has plenty to keep the kids entertained. There are detective activities ready to be solved, a large collection of New Zealand Police uniforms to try on (great for a photo opportunity), and even a police motorbike. Free activity sheets are available and fun events run in the school holidays. Visit the New Zealand Police Museum website to stay informed about current events.
Before you leave, be sure to visit the gift shop which sells police souvenirs, history books and toys for the kids, including the popular Police dog soft toy puppy.
The Museum is open between 10am and 5pm, seven days a week (excluding Good Friday and Christmas Day). General admission is free. Charges apply for guided tours and programmes and must be booked in advance.
