See what's tucked away in the basement of the Museum.

STARTS MON 4 MAY UNTIL SUN 27 SEPT, 2026
10.15AM DAILY (EXCEPT WEDNESDAYS)

$30 PER PERSON, $27 PER MEMBER
MEET AT THE WHITE GUIDED TOURS ARROW, TE AO MĀRAMA SOUTH ATRIUM

Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime chance to explore the underground world where many of our treasures are stored.

Your guide will reveal how we look after our priceless collections and how they are kept safe for future generations. This is a rare opportunity to go behind the scenes and see how museums protect and care for their precious objects when they are not on display.

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Frequently asked questions

+Can my child come on this tour?

This tour is suitable for people aged 11 and over. Anyone aged 11 - 13 must be accompanied by a paying adult.

+How many people can attend this tour?

Because you are entering high security areas not usually accessed by the public, no more than 10 to 12 people are allowed on each tour. Each tour will be led by a highly trained Museum Guide.

+What should I wear?

Comfortable flat shoes are a good idea - please note that you'll be leaving coats, scarves, jackets and bags in storage before entering the storage area.

+Where can I leave my belongings? 

At the start of the tour, you will be taken to a secure area where your belongings will be locked for the duration of the tour. All bags, coats, umbrellas, mobile devices, cameras and anything else carried into the Museum must be stored for the duration of the tour.
 

+Can I take photos and videos on the tour? 

No, it’s not permitted to take photos and videos in the basement of the Museum. We ask that all mobile devices and cameras are left in the secure room provided at the start of the tour.
 

+Is this tour suitable for wheelchairs and walking frames?

Yes it is, but given the smaller spaces of some of the areas this tour goes to, we are only able to accommodate one or two wheelchairs or walking frames per tour. If you or someone in your group is attending in a wheelchair or with a walking frame, please email [email protected] to let us know the date you wish to come, so that we can ensure there is adequate space for everyone.
 

+Where and when do we meet for this tour?

Please meet your tour guide in the South Atrium of the Museum at 10AM at the white arrow in the South Atrium. The tour will commence at 10.15AM sharp. As this tour goes into the non-public parts of the Museum, it is not possible for latecomers to join the tour. Please arrive in plenty of time.

+How long does the tour take?

The tour is one hour. Our guides are always willing to stay afterwards to answer any questions you may have.