Museum Of Transport And Technology

Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT) Auckland: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Complete Visitor Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction: MOTAT’s Legacy and Significance

The Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT) in Auckland is New Zealand’s leading institution dedicated to the preservation and celebration of the nation’s history in transport, technology, and innovation. Located across two expansive sites—Western Springs and Motions Road—MOTAT invites visitors to embark on a journey through New Zealand’s evolution in mobility, engineering, and everyday life. Its extensive, interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, and over 300,000 artifacts make MOTAT a cornerstone for families, history buffs, and anyone eager to discover Auckland’s rich technological heritage.

Founded in 1964 as a response to the urgent need to preserve disappearing vehicles and industrial machinery, MOTAT grew out of the efforts of enthusiasts and more than two dozen preservation societies. Its historic heart is the Western Springs Pumping Station, Auckland’s first pressurized water facility, built in the 1870s. This site, along with the Sir Keith Park Memorial Aviation Hall, forms the core of MOTAT’s storytelling—showcasing everything from operational steam engines to rare WWII aircraft, and celebrating the achievements of trailblazing Kiwis like Jean Batten and Sir Keith Park.

MOTAT is more than a museum; it is a living, community-driven space with accessible facilities, a heritage tramway, educational outreach, and regular events that foster a deep appreciation of both local and global innovation. For up-to-date details on visiting, tickets, and amenities, see the MOTAT Official Site, Wikipedia: Museum of Transport and Technology, and Google Arts & Culture: MOTAT.

Museum of Transport and Technology MOTAT in Auckland New Zealand

Westpoint Performing Arts Centre seen from the MOTAT car park in Auckland, New Zealand

View of MOTAT museum buildings in Auckland New Zealand

Exhibition hall interior at MOTAT 2 museum featuring vintage trains and industrial displays

MOTAT Aviation Hall in Auckland showcasing historic aircrafts

MOTAT Aviation Hall exterior in Auckland, New Zealand with vintage aircraft on display

Vintage tram at MOTAT Tramway in Auckland New Zealand

Introduction: MOTAT’s Legacy and Significance
MOTAT Visiting Hours and Ticket Information
How to Get There
Museum Origins and Historical Development
Key Sites: The Western Springs Pumping Station
Expansion of Collections and Facilities
Governance and Professionalization
Aviation Heritage: Sir Keith Park Memorial Aviation Collection
Visitor Experience, Tours, and Events
Accessibility and Amenities
Educational and Social Impact
Restoration and Conservation
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Visual Suggestions and Photography Spots
Planning Your Visit: Tips and Recommendations
Conclusion and Call to Action
References

MOTAT Visiting Hours and Ticket Information

Hours: MOTAT is typically open Wednesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM. It is closed on Mondays, Tuesdays, and major public holidays. Final admissions are usually at 4:00 PM. Always check the official website for updates around public holidays and special events.
Ticket Prices (2025):
- Adults: NZD 25
- Children (5–15): NZD 10 (under 5s free)
- Seniors (65+): NZD 15
- Family Pass (2 adults + up to 3 children): NZD 60
- SuperGold Card/Students: NZD 18
- Group discounts and special offers available; see the MOTAT website for current details.
How to Buy: Purchase advance tickets online for a seamless entry or at the gate on arrival.

How to Get There

MOTAT’s two main campuses are:

Main Site (MOTAT 1): 805 Great North Road, Western Springs—close to Auckland Zoo and Western Springs Park.
Aviation Hall (MOTAT 2): 98 Motions Road—connected to the main site by a historic tramway.

Transport Options:

Public Transport: Several bus routes serve both MOTAT sites. The main campus is easily reached from central Auckland.
By Car: Onsite parking is available at both campuses. Parking can be limited on busy days, so early arrival or public transport is recommended.
Heritage Tram: Your ticket includes unlimited tram rides between the sites—a unique way to travel and experience Auckland’s historic transport.

Nearby, you’ll find family-friendly attractions like the Auckland Zoo and Western Springs Reserve, making MOTAT an ideal anchor for a day of exploration.

Museum Origins and Historical Development

MOTAT was established in 1964 through the collaborative efforts of more than 25 preservation societies, including the Old-Time Transport Preservation League and the Royal New Zealand Aeronautical Society. Their shared vision was to safeguard New Zealand’s industrial and transport heritage. The Western Springs Pumping Station, dating from the 1870s, became the museum’s nucleus due to its historical significance as Auckland’s first pressurized water supply (MOTAT: Establishing Auckland’s Early Water Supply), (Wikipedia: Museum of Transport and Technology).

Key Sites: The Western Springs Pumping Station

This iconic Victorian-era facility, designed by William Errington, remains a highlight of any MOTAT visit. The operational Double Woolf Compound beam engine and the preserved industrial architecture illustrate the technological achievements of 19th-century Auckland. The adjacent Western Springs Lake, formed by damming natural springs, adds to the historic ambiance (Wikipedia: Museum of Transport and Technology), (Google Arts & Culture: MOTAT).

Expansion of Collections and Facilities

MOTAT’s collections have grown to include trams, trains, buses, fire engines, early computers, communication equipment, and more. The operational tramway, opened in 1967, connects both museum sites and extends to Auckland Zoo, offering a unique transport experience (Wikipedia: Museum of Transport and Technology). Volunteers and restoration teams are instrumental in acquiring and maintaining these historic vehicles.

Governance and Professionalization

The Museum of Transport and Technology Act 2000 established a formal structure for MOTAT’s management, enabling expansion, increased funding, and enhanced conservation with the support of professional staff (Wikipedia: Museum of Transport and Technology).

Aviation Heritage: Sir Keith Park Memorial Aviation Collection

Located at MOTAT 2 (Motions Road), the Aviation Hall features over 40 aircraft, including rare examples such as the De Havilland Mosquito and the Avro Lancaster bomber. The Sir Keith Park Memorial Aviation Collection celebrates New Zealand’s contributions to aviation, with memorabilia from figures like Richard Pearse and Jean Batten (Google Arts & Culture: MOTAT), (Wikipedia: Museum of Transport and Technology).

Visitor Experience, Tours, and Events

Guided Tours: Offered regularly, led by knowledgeable staff and volunteers—book ahead or check the MOTAT website for schedules.
Special Events: Annual vehicle rallies, themed weekends, interactive science demonstrations, and live machinery days bring MOTAT’s collections to life.
Photographic Spots: Capture the Victorian-era pumping station, tramways in action, and soaring aircraft for lasting memories.
Interactive Exhibits: Hands-on science centers (including the new Te Puawānanga), model railways, and computing displays engage visitors of all ages (Explore Auckland), (MOTAT exhibitions).

Accessibility and Amenities

MOTAT is committed to accessibility:

Wheelchair-friendly buildings and pathways
Accessible restrooms and mobility scooter hire
Assistance dogs welcome
Family picnic areas, playgrounds, and a café
Gift shop with educational souvenirs

For full accessibility details, consult AucklandNZ and TheCommunity.co.nz.

MOTAT’s commitment to education includes:

STEM-focused programs and school visits
Integration of Māori knowledge and contemporary Kiwi innovation (notably in Te Puawānanga)
The Walsh Memorial Library, an invaluable resource for researchers and the public (WhichMuseum: MOTAT), (Google Arts & Culture: MOTAT).

Restoration and Conservation

Ongoing restoration projects, such as the historic No. 4 bus and WWII military vehicles, are a testament to MOTAT’s philosophy of “living history.” Volunteer and professional conservators ensure these artifacts remain operational for public enjoyment (MOTAT: No. 4 Bus Closes in on a Century), (Explore Auckland).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are MOTAT’s opening hours?
A: Typically Wednesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM; check the MOTAT website for seasonal changes.

Q: How much are tickets?
A: Adults NZD 25, children (5–15) NZD 10, family pass NZD 60, under 5s free. Discounts for seniors, students, and groups.

Q: Is MOTAT accessible?
A: Yes—wheelchair access, accessible restrooms, and mobility scooter hire are available.

Q: Can I see both sites in one day?
A: Yes, the heritage tram connects both locations and is included in your ticket.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes—see the MOTAT website for details and times.

Q: Is there parking?
A: Free on-site parking is available but can fill up during busy times.

Q: Can I bring my own food?
A: Yes—there are picnic areas and a café onsite.

Visual Suggestions and Photography Spots

Historic Village: “Historic Village at MOTAT, Auckland” (Victorian cottages and schoolhouse)
Heritage Tramway: “MOTAT vintage tram ride connecting museum sites”
Aviation Hall: “Solent Mark IV Flying Boat exhibit at MOTAT Aviation Hall”
Interactive Science Demos: “Hands-on science exhibit at MOTAT”
Map: Showing both MOTAT sites and nearby attractions

Virtual tours and interactive media are available on the MOTAT website.

Planning Your Visit: Tips and Recommendations

Plan for at least half a day to enjoy both sites and the tramway.
Arrive early if you require parking, especially on weekends or holidays.
Check the events calendar for live demonstrations and special exhibitions.
Dress comfortably and bring weather-appropriate gear for outdoor areas.
Consider the “Mates Pass” for savings on frequent visits.

Conclusion and Call to Action

MOTAT delivers an immersive, hands-on journey through New Zealand’s transport and technological history, making it a standout Auckland attraction for families, enthusiasts, and tourists alike. Its engaging exhibits, live demonstrations, and welcoming facilities ensure a memorable experience for all visitors.

For the latest updates, ticket bookings, and event schedules, visit the MOTAT Official Site. Enhance your visit by downloading the Audiala app for interactive maps, exclusive content, and real-time updates. Follow MOTAT on social media to stay informed about new exhibitions and behind-the-scenes stories.