The grand neoclassical Auckland Museum provides a great introduction to Maori culture, New Zealand's natural environment and the New Zealand people. Formally called Auckland War Memorial Museum, it offers comprehensive, often interactive displays and a vigorous programme of visiting exhibitions.
Opened in its present venue - built to commemorate the dead of the First World War - in 1929, the museum also contains a large library.
The building and institution, looking out onto the sweeping lawns of the Domain (the city's main park), is also known by its Maori name, Te Papa Whakahiku. Check out the daily Maori show, Manaia, for a taste of the Haka and Maori traditional dancing.