Events
Our Ocean of Islands
Exhibition on now | FREE exhibition
Our Ocean of Islands is a landmark exhibition bringing together the Indigenous knowledge systems and cultural practices of 24 Moana Oceania island nations. Developed with key knowledge holders from each island nation, the exhibition celebrates diverse Indigenous perspectives and explores the interconnections between peoples, lands, seas, and skies.

Take a virtual visit to Antarctica
Sat 29 and Sun 30 August, 10am - 4pm | This event has now reached capacity. We apologise for any inconvenience.
Experience Antarctica with two immersive virtual reality experiences presented by the New Zealand Antarctic Heritage Trust (NZAHT) and the UK Antarctic Heritage Trust (UKAHT).

Mekeo Papua New Guinea Community Day
Sat 5 September, 10am - 5pm | Free event
Join us this month as we celebrate Papua New Guinea alongside knowledge holder Julia Mage’au Gray, with an opportunity to learn more about Mekeo culture through performance, conversation and a live skin marking demonstration.

Merchant Navy Day 2026
Thur 3 September, 11am - 12pm | Free, bookings are advised
Join us for a special service commemorating the men and women of the Merchant Navy and the civilian ship crews who served during wartime. The one-hour public event includes a wreath-laying ceremony at the Maritime Museum’s Merchant Navy Memorial Plaque.

Manahua – A Weavers’ Collective
Sat 12 September, 10.30am-1pm | Free with museum entry
Watch weaving live at the museum. Spend some time with Manahua – A Weavers’ Collective as you sit and watch the weaving take shape.

Pirate For a Day Sailing
Saturday 19 September, 11:30am & 1:30pm | From $20pp
Ahoy, me hearties. Get ready to unleash your inner swashbuckler and join us for a special pirate-themed sailing in celebration of Talk Like a Pirate Day!

Make Days
Select Sundays, 10am - 2pm | Free with museum entry
Drop into the Maritime Museum on selected dates and take home a free, whānau-friendly craft.

Free Guided Museum Tours
Thu - Sun, 10:30am | Free with museum entry
Dive deeper with a complimentary tour from one of our friendly volunteer guides.
