MOTAT

Overview

MOTAT (Museum of Transport and Technology) is a interactive museum in Western Springs showcasing New Zealand's technological and transport heritage. Spread across two sites connected by a vintage tramway, it houses aircraft, locomotives, and hands-on science exhibits.

Highlights

• Aviation Display Hall: Home to a Lancaster bomber, Solent flying boat, and early New Zealand aircraft.
• Vintage Tram Ride: A working tramway connects the two museum sites through Western Springs parkland.
• Innovation Yard: Hands-on science and technology exhibits popular with families.

History

Founded in 1964, MOTAT was New Zealand's first science and technology museum. It grew from a collection of steam traction engines to encompass over 300,000 artefacts across its two sites.

Visitor Tips

• Duration: 2–3 hours to explore both sites.
• Tram: The vintage tram ride between sites is included in admission.
• Combine with: Auckland Zoo and Western Springs Park are directly adjacent.