National Army Museum, Waiouru, Tongariro National Park

Discover New Zealand’s military history at the National Army Museum in Waiouru. Explore powerful stories, military artefacts and engaging exhibits that bring the experiences of New Zealand soldiers to life.

The National Army Museum New Zealand, also widely known as the NZ Army Museum, preserves and shares the stories of New Zealand’s military heritage.

Discover historic campaigns, personal stories of courage, loyalty and comradeship, and an extensive collection of military exhibits and memorabilia. Visitors can also explore their own military connections through public research material.

Whether you’re interested in military history, travelling with family or looking for worthwhile Waiouru attractions, the National Army Museum offers an engaging experience in the heart of the North Island.

Visit the National Army Museum in Waiouru

The National Army Museum in Waiouru is one of New Zealand’s most comprehensive military museums and a fascinating stop for anyone travelling through the central North Island.

Conveniently located off State Highway 1, between Auckland and Wellington and near Mt Ruapehu, the museum is easy to include in a North Island road trip or a visit to the wider Ruapehu and Tongariro region.

Inside, visitors can explore New Zealand’s military history through extensive collections, historic displays, military artefacts, memorabilia and personal stories spanning generations.

The museum also provides educational experiences for children, making it suitable for families as well as military history enthusiasts.

Most visitors spend approximately 1–1.5 hours exploring the museum, or you can take your experience further with a staff-guided tour.

Why Visit the NZ Army Museum?

• Discover New Zealand’s military history through extensive collections and exhibits
• See military artefacts, memorabilia and historic displays
• Learn about New Zealand’s participation in conflicts around the world
• Discover personal stories of courage, loyalty, sacrifice and comradeship
• Access public research material and explore family military connections
• Educational and engaging for adults, children and families
• Staff-guided tours available daily
• Conveniently located off State Highway 1 in Waiouru
• An excellent stop when travelling through the central North Island

National Army Museum Hours & Admission Prices

The museum is open daily from 9.00am to 4.30pm, except Christmas Day.

Most visitors spend approximately 1–1.5 hours in the museum.

Admission Prices

• Adults: $15.00
• Children accompanied by an adult: $5.00
• Children under 5: FREE
• Students with ID: $10.00
• Family – 2 adults plus school-age children: $35.00
• Senior Citizens (65+): $10.00
• Group rates: Available on request

Prices are in NZD and are subject to change.

National Army Museum Guided Tours

Take your military history experience further with a staff-guided tour of the National Army Museum.

Guided tours operate daily between 10.00am and 2.00pm, with two options available:

• Express Tour: approximately 20 minutes
• Premium Tour: approximately 1 hour

Guided tours offer visitors an opportunity to learn more about the museum’s collections, military history and the stories behind the exhibits.

View National Army Museum Guided Tours

Explore Waiouru, Ruapehu & the Central North Island

The museum’s central Waiouru location makes it an easy addition to a road trip through the North Island and a worthwhile stop when exploring Mt Ruapehu, Tongariro National Park and the wider Ruapehu region.

Travellers can combine a museum visit with other attractions, activities and places to stay throughout the region.

Plan more of your journey with our Manawatu-Wanganui – Ruapehu Travel Guide, featuring more ideas for exploring this part of New Zealand.

Book Direct with the National Army Museum

Plan your visit directly with the National Army Museum New Zealand. Visit the official website for the latest visitor information, guided tours, group enquiries and any updates to opening hours or admission prices.