Introduction

MOTAT is New Zealand's largest transport and technology museum of its kind and offers a fun and exciting learning experience for visitors of all ages. 

The core vision is to “use New Zealand’s heritage, kiwi ingenuity, transport, technology and associated stories in a creative and interactive way to educate and inspire the innovators of tomorrow.” 

With our changing exhibitions, school holiday experiences, unique MOTAT events and live activities, MOTAT is a great place for a family day out. The MOTAT experience is a rich learning environment for all ages and tells stories about New Zealand's involvement in the development of transport, technology and innovation. 

Spread across 40 acres at our two sites, MOTAT Great North Rd and MOTAT Meola Road, explore and discover the achievements that have helped shape New Zealand, from the 1800s to today. We have an extensive collection of items and possess very rare treasures which are of national significance to the people of New Zealand. 

Our History

Te Wai Orea (waters of the eel) is the Māori name for Western Springs. Farmer William Motions bought the land from local Māori. By the 1870s, the growing city of Auckland needed a reliable water supply. The springs were dammed to form a lake, and in 1877 the Pumphouse was built.

Corporate

The Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT) opened in 1964 and after the introduction of the MOTAT Act 2000, the museum is now controlled by the Museum of Transport and Technology Board. The Auckland Council controlled Regional Facilities Auckland (RFA) meets the net operating cost of maintaining, operating and developing the Auckland museum.

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