If you only visit one museum during your New Zealand vacation, make it this one. Known universally as Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand takes a fun and interactive approach to teaching you all about the country and its art, history, culture, and

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If you only visit one museum during your New Zealand vacation, make it this one. Known universally as Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand takes a fun and interactive approach to teaching you all about the country and its art, history, culture, and people. Efforts to engage younger visitors have really paid off, and your kids will love the hands-on discovery centers, special events that coincide with the New Zealand school holidays and, if they're aged 12 months to five years, the magical storytelling sessions that take place several times throughout the day. Te Papa's four discovery centers provide an educational and fun introduction to Maori culture—children can have a go at cloak weaving, play traditional rhythm sticks, or compose their own Maori greeting. They also allow children explore their creative side, take a journey through the natural world, and learn more about the Pacific Island nations as a whole. A highlight for older children might be the simulator rides in the fantastic OurSpace exhibition. The deep-sea vehicle simulator takes you underwater in search of erupting volcanoes, while the High Ride will get your heart pumping as you experience simulated extreme sports and the like.

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