1 / 3New Zealand Police Museum
📍 Papakōwhai, Wellington
The NZ Police Museum in Porirua traces the force from its origins to the present through interactive displays, detailed case narratives, and exhibits of confiscated handmade weapons and police equipment.
From past to present, an awesome display of stories, exhibits and information about the NZ police and some infamous incidents. Seeing some of the weapons on display, it gives you a new appreciation of what the police have to face everyday! The people that work here are lovely and there is also a cute little gift shop.
🏆 Family Action Verdict
Best for school-age children and curious adults — the case stories hold attention in a way that standard museum displays rarely do, and the confiscated weapons exhibit prompts genuine conversation. Staff are a real asset: knowledgeable, approachable, and happy to go deep on any display. Build in extra time — most visitors stay longer than planned.
ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go
💬 What Families Are Saying
View all reviews →419 Google reviews
Cath Jacobs
3 months ago
“From past to present, an awesome display of stories, exhibits and information about the NZ police and some infamous incidents. Seeing some of the weapons on display, it gives you a new appreciation of what the police have to face everyday! The people that work here are lovely and there is also a cute little gift shop.”
N V
4 years ago
“What an amazing experience! Really loved our visit at the NZ Police Museum. Lots of interactive activities and a variety of displays on the different things our police do. After our visit, we were filled with appreciation and gratitude for all our police does to keep NZ safe. Thank you.”
Ashleigh Art
9 years ago
“It was really interesting with lots of interesting things to look at and read. I loved reading about the history of the New Zealand Police and seeing how things have changed. It's free to get into which is nice and wasn't busy when we went.”
Jayshree Dastracey
2 months ago
“It will make you appreciate and be grateful and thankful. It will make you cry and it will make think about the trauma and what they had to see and do. Very touching and informative. Lovely people to answer your queries”
Reviews from Google
Overview
The New Zealand Police Museum covers the full history of NZ policing through interactive activities, detailed case stories, and exhibits of confiscated handmade weapons. Displays range from historical origins to contemporary policing challenges. Staff are warm and willing to answer questions at length. Younger visitors engage with hands-on activities; older children and adults are drawn to the case narratives and weapon exhibits. A small gift shop is on site. Free on-site parking. Indoor venue.
