MOTAT — the Museum of Transport and Technology — is Auckland’s largest collection of technology, transport, and social history, spread across two connected sites at Western Springs. Admission covers both sites and all-day travel on a fleet of heritage trams that runs between them. The aviation hall is one of the Southern Hemisphere’s most significant collections of historic aircraft, while the Pioneer Village recreates New Zealand life from 1840 to 1890 across a series of relocated historic buildings.
Practical Information
| Location | 805 Great North Rd, Western Springs, Auckland (Site 1); connected via tram to Site 2 |
| Hours | Daily 10am–4pm (closed Christmas Day) |
| Family pass | $45 (2 adults + up to 4 children aged 5–15) |
| Seniors | $10 |
| Under 5 | Free |
| Includes | Both sites and all-day heritage tram travel |
| Getting there | Great North Rd, Western Springs — bus routes and paid on-site parking available |
| Accessibility | Exhibition halls accessible; heritage trams are not wheelchair accessible; mobility scooter hire available |
| Website | motat.nz |
About MOTAT
MOTAT opened in 1964 and has grown into one of New Zealand’s most visited cultural institutions. The collection spans the full sweep of New Zealand’s technological and social history — from the tools and vehicles of 19th-century settler life to mid-20th-century aircraft, cars, and computing.
The two sites are linked by free heritage trams, which run continuously throughout the day. The tram journey itself is part of the experience — passengers ride restored vintage trams along a dedicated track between the two main areas.
Key Collections and Exhibits
The Aviation Hall is MOTAT’s flagship exhibit — one of the largest aviation collections in the Southern Hemisphere, with significant aircraft from New Zealand’s aviation history including early biplanes, WWII aircraft, and jet-era machines. The collection is authentically preserved and displayed in scale.
The Land Transport collection covers over 100 motor vehicles, trains, trams, carriages, tractors, and specialist vehicles including fire engines and police cars. Many are in working or restored condition.
The Pioneer Village recreates New Zealand life from 1840 to 1890 through relocated historic buildings — a working blacksmith’s forge, a 1920s shopping street, an early church, and domestic dwellings from the colonial era. The Te Puawānanga Science & Technology Centre offers hands-on interactive exhibits aimed at families and school groups.
What visitors say
“We spent nearly five hours there and didn’t see everything. The aviation hall is genuinely impressive — real planes you can walk under and around, not just models.” — visitor account, TripAdvisor
“The tram ride between the sites is a highlight for kids. Staff are friendly and knowledgeable. A full day is needed to do it justice.” — visitor account, Google Reviews
Where to learn more
MOTAT — Plan Your Visit: Current entry prices, hours, accessibility information, and getting there details.
MOTAT — What’s On: Current exhibitions, events, and school programme information.
FAQ
How much does MOTAT cost?
A family pass is $45. Seniors pay $10. Children under 5 are free. Admission covers both sites and all-day tram travel.
How do I get between the two MOTAT sites?
Free heritage trams run continuously between the two sites. Included in admission.
Is MOTAT accessible for wheelchair users?
Exhibition halls are accessible. Heritage trams are not wheelchair accessible. Mobility scooter hire available on site.
How long does a visit to MOTAT take?
A full visit typically takes four to five hours. Allow a full day for everything.
For more Auckland experiences, see the Auckland Parks and Reserves guide.