A day at the museum

The huge Pygmy blue whale skeleton is exhibited at Te Papa national museum.

New Zealand's national museum Te Papa is a family oriented hub and ideal for new visitors with time to spare in Wellington and looking for a hightech insight into this country's land and maritime life.

Open daily from 10am to 6pm, the national museum is free of charge to anyone wishing to spend a minimum of half a day exploring New Zealand's history, indigenous culture, art, environment, discoveries and exhibitions at the fivestorey NZ$317 million (Bt7.6 billion) venue, which features word class displays and the latest in interactive technology.

Te Papa, Maori for a container in which precious objects are kept, reveals the country's indigenous treasures through 6,000 precious objects on display, as well as studies of land, environment and animals. While most of the displays open the eyes to New Zealand's land and life, those who like adrenaline rushes can also bungy jump with "The High Ride" or go on a simulated submarine journey with 'The Deep Ride' at just 10 dollars per adult and 5 dollars per child.

Guided tours are also available from 6 dollars while special exhibitions, "A Day in Pompeii" which showcases life and death of ancient Rome by Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD and which runs from today through April, has a small admission fee.