Background image
Permanent Exhibition

Te Tumu
Play space for under 5s

Date & Time

Permanent Exhibition

Tickets

Included In General Admission

Parking

We recommend parking outside the Aviation Hall, please note the nearest tram stop is currently at the zoo.

Mobility parking is available on site at Great North Road. Please arrange in advance. Mobility parking is also available in front of the Aviation Hall but is not bookable.

Welcome to Te Tumu!

Located In our science and technology centre, Te Puawānanga, this interactive play space is designed especially for our under-5 visitors to encourage hands-on exploration, climbing, crawling and discovery.

Inspired by the natural world and our neighbouring Te Wai Ōrea Western Springs, Te Tumu (meaning "the foundation") is where learning meets play, letting the littlest learners uncover the science and technology woven into everyday life at their own pace.

Under 5s visit MOTAT for free, and Te Tumu is a great place to start your day.

Te Tumu soft play

Te Tumu is designed for shared experiences with whānau in a safe, welcoming environment. It's a screen-free, text-free space that offers:

  • Plenty of seating for caregivers

  • Soft play with rounded corners

  • Spaces for children and their caregivers to play together

  • Baby-friendly areas

  • Child gates for safety

  • Close proximity to rūma kai (food room), toilets, and the parenting room

Ride the waka (boat) and count the many tuna (eels). Harvest, sort and transport baskets of kumara. Learn about flax harvesting through the weaving wall or climb Tane Māhuta and slide back down the great tree to search for hidden creatures!

Whether your little one is building, climbing, hiding, or discovering, Te Tumu will nurture, engage, and inspire curiosity.

Visit today.

Waka
Waka
Date & Time

Permanent Exhibition

Tickets

Included In General Admission

Parking

We recommend parking outside the Aviation Hall, please note the nearest tram stop is currently at the zoo.

Mobility parking is available on site at Great North Road. Please arrange in advance. Mobility parking is also available in front of the Aviation Hall but is not bookable.