The Auckland War Memorial Museum is right in the middle of the city in the expansive Auckland Domain, its an imposing building right on the top of the hill. Originally built in the 1920s as a memorial to those who lost their lives or served in World War 1, it was expanded to also provide a memorial to those who served or died in World War 2.

Its free entry for Auckland residence, for all other NZ citizens, entry is a donation. For all other nationalities its $25 for an adult, less for children.

There are a number of ways to get to the museum, I walked from Queen St/K Road, there is parking the domain if you have a car or you can catch the hop-on hop-off tourist bus.

While the name of the Museum would have you think its just about war, there are actually many other exhibits.

The ground floor has a wonderful Maori and Pacific island collection. While I was visiting there was a fabulous wildlife photography competition exhibit. I would consider this a do not miss exhibit.

The first floor is primarily natural history including a very popular and interactive area for children.

The top floor is mainly the war memorials and displays regarding the wars including peace keeping, Korean and other wars that New Zealand has been involved in. This is also where you will find extremely helpful staff in the library and research department. I spent some time here speaking to a researcher regarding my grandfathers diary and she gave me a number of very helpful suggestions regarding researching more into my Grandad’s service in the army.

Now a few photos – sorry for the poor quality – dim lighting and iPhone are not a good combo 🙂

Amen.