9) New Zealand Maritime Museum
New Zealanders have always been deeply connected with the sea, and the well-curated New Zealand Maritime Museum explores this connection, offering a comprehensive survey of the country’s seafaring history.
Exhibits trace the country’s history from the arrival of the first Polynesians and include Maori canoes and outrigger boats, whaling equipment, and old instruments and implements. One gallery is devoted to New Zealand’s modern yachting success and includes the yacht in which the New Zealand crew, skippered by Sir Peter Blake, won the America’s Cup in 1995. Many of the vessels held in the collection sail regularly, which adds a real dose of excitement to a sightseeing trip.
Address: Corner of Quay and Hobson Streets, Auckland 1140, Auckland
Official site: http://www.maritimemuseum.co.nz
10) Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT)
Auckland’s Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT), located in the Western Springs district, is devoted to the history of technology and transport in New Zealand. Its prize exhibits relate to the New Zealand aviation pioneer Richard Pearse (1877-1953), who made his first flights about the same time as the Wright brothers, while the 90 Degrees South exhibition is dedicated to the trans-Antarctic expedition of New Zealand explorer Sir Edmund Hillary.
Other items include old coaches, railroad rolling stock, trams and vintage cars, and a vast collection of black and white photography. A variety of fun workshops and educational programs are offered, and for a real treat, take a ride on one of the vintage trams that operate from the museum.
Address: Great North Road, Western Springs
Official site: www.motat.org.nz
The POSITIVE Catholic 