Cultural & Theme Tours in Wellington

The Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, which translates as 'the place of treasures of this land,' is Wellington's must-visit attraction. Popular with tourists and Kiwis alike, Te Papa "” or Our Place "” is a treasure trove of New Zealand history and art, Māori culture, the Pacific and the natural environment. On this 45-minute express tour, you'll explore the museum in the early evening, when the daytime crowds have thinned. Check off the main highlights on each of the museum's six floors, and gain additional insight into New Zealand's land and history from your guide's commentary.

Go behind the scenes of 'The Lord of the Rings' and other blockbusters at Weta Workshop, the world's leading special effects and prop studio. The informative and entertaining Weta Cave Workshop Tour gives you a glimpse into the film production of your favorite movies including the LOTR trilogy, 'Avatar' and 'The Amazing Spider-Man 2.' Your 2.5-hour tour includes convenient round-trip transport by minivan from central Wellington, eliminating the hassle of driving and parking.

Ever wanted to visit a real shooting stage? Blast off on an incredible journey and discover the Weta Workshop miniatures behind the popular TV series, Thunderbirds Are Go. Enjoy a rare photo opportunity, and get a collectable Thunderbirds Are Go pin to take home.

Take an evening tour of the Weta Workshop, a leading special effects and prop studio co-founded by director Peter Jackson, where you'll learn about Wellington's movie-making history. Discover the creative film production process from skilled technicians at the Weta Cave. You may recognize blockbusters such as 'Avatar,' 'The Amazing Spider-Man' and - of course - 'The Lord of the Rings.' Finish with a 3-course dinner at CoCo at the Roxy in the heart of Miramar. Round-trip transport from the Wellington CBD included.

Get a 60-minute introduction to the highlights of Te Papa's 'taonga,' meaning a 'cultural treasures' in the Māori language. While admission to the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa is free, a small-group tour with a museum guide offers more insight on the enrich your understanding of this unique culture.