New Zealand Maritime Museum Hui Te Ananui a Tangaroa

The New Zealand Maritime Museum stands on Hobson Wharf, beside the Viaduct Basin on the downtown waterfront. It opened in 1993 and tells the story of New Zealand's relationship with the sea, from Pacific voyaging and canoe building to the yachting campaigns of Sir Peter Blake. Its Māori name, Hui Te Ananui a Tangaroa, was gifted by Sir Hugh Kāwharu of Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei and means the dwelling of Tangaroa, the atua of the oceans.

The Hawaiki gallery covers oceanic craft, including Tavaka, a two-man outrigger canoe built for the museum in 1994, and the wider collection includes more than 130 watercraft. The best-known exhibition, Blue Water Black Magic, is devoted to Sir Peter Blake and includes NZL 32, the yacht known as Black Magic. Outside the entrance stands KZ1, the 1988 America's Cup challenger. The entrance itself incorporates the Launchman's Building of 1920.

One of the museum's strengths is that some of its collection still goes to sea. Heritage sailings run on vessels including the scow Ted Ashby, the brigantine Breeze and the steam tug SS Puke, which was launched in 1872. Ted Ashby sailings can accommodate wheelchair users with a specialist chair supplied by the museum. Sailings have their own schedules and tickets, so check the website.

The museum opens every day except Christmas Day from 10am to 5pm, with last admission at 4pm. Residents of the Auckland region get in free with proof of address, children aged four and under are free, and family passes are available for visitors. Allow around two hours, more if you join a sailing.

Facilities are good. Most areas have ramp access, wheelchairs can be booked on site, and assistance animals are welcome. Large bags are not allowed in the galleries but can be left at the ticket desk or in lockers, and there is free Wi-Fi. Koel Café in the foyer serves coffee and snacks, and picnics are allowed on the concourse. Guided tours depart from the ticket desk or can be booked in advance.

The museum suits families, sailing enthusiasts and anyone curious about how New Zealand was settled. Its position beside the Viaduct Basin, at the corner of Quay and Hobson Streets, means it fits neatly into a day on the downtown waterfront.