We will be open again from Thursday 12 December. More
Skip to page content
Home / About us

About us

Waikato Museum is currently closed for significant mahi to fix existing issues with the building and prevent future problems. Exscite is still open every day.

Read more: Temporary closure July to December 2024 

Waikato Museum Te Whare Taonga o Waikato is a cultural hub that preserves and showcases the rich heritage of the Waikato region and its indigenous iwi/hapuu connected to the Tainui Waka. 

Through captivating collections, immersive exhibitions, and interactive programs, Waikato Museum weaves the vibrant tapestry of our local narratives, welcoming visitors from near and far to engage with compelling stories and artistic expressions. 

Highlights include the majestic war waka Te Winika; Exscite, the fun hands-on science galleries for children; and our galleries which exhibit a rich blend of artworks.

Since the year 2000, Waikato Museum has hosted the National Contemporary Art Award. Curated by a new judge every year, it culminates in an exhibition which documents a snapshot of New Zealand contemporary art.

Waikato Museum in its current building was opened in 1987. The architect was the late Ivan Mercep of JASMaD (now Jasmax), the same architect who went on to design New Zealand’s national museum, Te Papa. Mercep was awarded a prestigious Gold Medal by the Institute of Architects (June 2008) for his notable career.

HCL M01664.2
Image: Waikato Museum under construction, circa 1985. Courtesy of Hamilton City Libraries, HCL_M01664.53

Location

1 Grantham Street (at the South end of Victoria Street)
Hamilton 3204

Parking

There are various car parking options within a few minutes’ walk of the Museum. Take a look at the Hamilton City Council website for more information about free and paid parking options, and a map showing mobility parking spaces in central Hamilton.

Opening hours

10am - 5pm

Open daily (except Christmas Day)

Prices

Free entry - donation/koha welcome.

Fees apply to some exhibitions and activities.

Photography, filming and videoing

You are very welcome to take photos and video without flash in the Museum provided they are for your own use and not for commercial purposes.

Look out for the ‘no photography’ icon indicating objects or exhibitions that cannot be filmed or photographed. This restriction may be for cultural reasons, due to copyright law or to protect the objects.

Want to hear more?

Sign up to receive our monthly email newsletter here.

Join us on social media

Management of Waikato Museum

Waikato Museum Te Whare Taonga O Waikato is an integral part of Hamilton City Council's Venues, Tourism, and Events group. Our group plays a pivotal role in promoting Kirikiriroa Hamilton as a must-visit destination, working to fill the city with events and attractions.

Other destinations


Hamilton Zoo at Te Kaaroro Nature Precinct

Hamilton Zoo at Te Kaaroro Nature Precinct offers a gateway to unforgettable wildlife encounters. As the North Island's largest zoo, our 25-hectare haven plays host to 480 exotic and native creatures, from majestic tigers and inquisitive chimpanzees to colourful parrots and vibrant frogs. Our core mission is to unite the community with the wonders of the natural world.


Hamilton Gardens

Hamilton Gardens is a living museum that tells a story of cultures and civilisations through 18 beautiful, inspiring, and iconic gardens. From Ancient Egypt to the 21st century, you will travel across continents and stroll through history as never before.