70 Molesworth Street, Thorndon, Wellington
Opposite New Zealand Parliament buildings stands the National Library Te Puna Mātauranga o Aotearoa. In it lies He Tohu — a permanent exhibition and home to some of New Zealand’s most important documents.
Visitors can enter He Tohu for free, and view three constitutional documents that shape Aotearoa.
, signed in 1840, is the founding agreement between Māori and the Crown. The treaty has often been hotly debated, and at times ignored or broken, but it remains a source of hope and optimism for Aotearoa’s future. It is displayed facing toward the doors of parliament across the road, to constantly challenge its agreement.
He Tohu is also home to the 1893 Women’s Suffrage Petition, Te Petihana Whakamana Pōti Wahine. This document led to New Zealand becoming the first country in the world where all women gained the right to vote in general elections.
National Library
It’s also where you can view the He Whakaputanga — Declaration of Independence. This hugely important document was how told the world in 1835 that New Zealand was an independent Māori nation.
Under the care of Archives New Zealand, these are kept in . The hand-crafted room is designed to protect and enhance the of the precious documents it holds. Inspired by traditional Māori , the exterior is made from native New Zealand rimu wood.
He Tohu features interactive exhibits which give visitors a chance to learn more about the history surrounding these documents. Search the Treaty of Waitangi for your signature. Listen to stories from some of the more than 32,000 women who signed the suffrage petition, representing almost a quarter of all adult women in the country at the time.
Entry is free and there are audio and guided tours available on request.
A short walk from the centre of the city lies Pukeahu National War Memorial Park. It is a place to reflect on New Zealand’s experience of war, military conflict, and peacekeeping, and how it shapes the national identity.
The cultural heart of Porirua City showcases the best in contemporary Māori and Pacific arts at this world-leading gallery.
Wellington’s contemporary art gallery is a dynamic cultural presence. You’ll find exhibitions that delight and challenge.
You’ll find manicured rose gardens, winding pathways and spectacular views over more than 25 hectares.
Telling the stories of how police have dealt with some of the country’s most infamous crimes, disasters, and other events.
Walk the corridors of power and see where New Zealand laws and policies are made.
New Zealand’s national museum reflects the country’s identity, history, and culture.