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The National Maritime Museum New Zealand is aptly located at the waterfront, near the Viaduct Harbor. It’s a tribute to all sailors through time who set foot in New Zealand, from the very first Polynesian traders to the sailors of today. Maori sailors, vessels and methods of navigation are given their due importance, as one of the most important exhibitions at the National Maritime Museum of New Zealand. There was a time when the seas were uncharted and adventures were found everywhere. The exploits of European sailors and adventurers who sailed these seas are honored here.

Trading, settlement, immigration and commercial shipping of all kinds, through the ages, map the progress of a land in many ways. The history of the land can be traced through these exhibits. Even actions that we might not wish had been done differently are part of our history. We cannot change them, only learn from them and accept them as part of what has made the world what it is today. Whaling and sealing are things that come under the scanner from people all over the world, but it is a part of history and so merits a place at the museum.

On a lighter side, recreation, arts and crafts and sports – pertaining to maritime activities, of course – make very interesting and diverting displays. After all, the science and precision of navigation, the training and responsibilities of lifeguards and their equipment – they are all important parts of the museum, but fun and frolic is a part of it, too.

A museum doesn’t just honor tradition and what was and what is through exhibits, especially a maritime museum. There will be documents, as well. This interesting collection of documents include the New Zealand Maritime Index, the New Zealand Maritime Record, Bill Laxon Maritime Library and New Zealand Maritime Firsts, among others.

The museum is also home to the Edmiston and Fraser Collections of maritime paintings, an alluring and enchanting set.

The last, and maybe best, part of the museum are the actual ships that the museum owns, usually tied outside the museum itself. The museum is true to its Maori name, ‘Te Huiteanaui-A-Tangaroa’ – it holds the treasures of the Sea God, Tangaroa.

While the museum reveals treasures from the vast sea, it’s not all Auckland has to offer a visitor. If you stay at the Langham Hotel Auckland, one of the best Auckland luxury hotels, you can get a comprehensive itinerary and even assistance with your transport from the hotel to visit all there is to see in Auckland.