New Zealand Parliament Tours

Walk the corridors of power and see where New Zealand laws and policies are made.

Go behind the scenes at the Beehive and Parliament House to understand more about New Zealand’s history and how democracy works.

Walk the corridors of power and learn about the Parliamentary process in New Zealand. You can find out about where New Zealand’s laws are written, debated, and passed. You’ll hear anecdotes about past politicians, see some of the artworks and objects from the Parliamentary Collection, and get to know the architectural history of the buildings.

There are many free guided tours that cater to different groups.

The Introduction to Parliament tour is the most popular and takes place many times throughout the day. It is a great way to learn about the parliamentary processes. Walk inside the Executive Wing (the Beehive), notable for its circular design. Look at the 100-year-old Parliament House and the Parliamentary Library. You’ll also see the Debating Chamber, Select Committee rooms, Grand Hall, Legislative Council Chamber, Parliament House, and Banquet Hall.

There are tours that cater to those interested in the parliamentary art collection, and a shorter tour designed for children. The Twilight Tour happens at night and adds on a meal at Bellamys by Logan Brown. Bellamys is a parliamentary restaurant that is usually open only to MPs. The fine dining restaurant serves sustainably sourced food overlooking a beautiful courtyard. The three-course meal is included in the tour ticket price and is a decadent way to complete your tour of the parliamentary precinct.

The friendly guides can provide information sheets for tours in Te Reo Māori, French, German, Spanish, Japanese, Chinese, Hindi, Samoan, and Korean.

Other things to do around Parliament

Entrance to He Tohu at The National Library of New Zealand.

He Tohu at National Library of New Zealand

Home to a declaration, a treaty, and a petition — New Zealand’s founding documents are at the National Library of New Zealand.

Round wooden tables and green cushioned chairs are seated in front of full-length windows at Bellamy's restaurant at the Beehive in Wellington.

Bellamys by Logan Brown

Approachable fine dining is on the menu in one of Wellington’s most unique dining experiences right in the heart of New Zealand’s parliament.

New Zealand Police Museum

Telling the stories of how police have dealt with some of the country’s most infamous crimes, disasters, and other events.

Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa

New Zealand’s national museum reflects the country’s identity, history, and culture.

Pātaka Art + Museum

The cultural heart of Porirua City showcases the best in contemporary Māori and Pacific arts at this world-leading gallery.

Wide tarsealed pathways surrounded by trees and plants, with people walking in Wellingtons Botanic Gardens.

Wellington Botanic Garden ki Paekākā

You’ll find manicured rose gardens, winding pathways and spectacular views over more than 25 hectares.

Exterior of the City Gallery with 5-metre tall hand statue ‘Quasi’ standing atop.

City Gallery Wellington Te Whare Toi

Wellington’s contemporary art gallery is a dynamic cultural presence. You’ll find exhibitions that delight and challenge.

A family walks towards the Dowse Museum in Lower Hutt.

The Dowse Art Museum

A contemporary art institution with a focus on craft and applied arts.

Wellington Museum

Experience the stories of Wellington and its people. From maritime history, early Māori settlement, and the city’s evolution since becoming the capital in 1865.

Pūkaha National Wildlife Centre

Explore the forest, meet native birds, and learn about the connection to the land at a unique conservation centre in Mount Bruce Reserve.