In association with the Wellington Arts Society, historian and garden specialist Amanda Herries explores the enduring influence of Japanese garden design on Western landscapes over the past century. Drawing on her extensive experience living, lecturing and curating exhibitions in Japan and the UK, she traces the journey of Japanese plants, aesthetics and philosophy from East to West. This fascinating lecture asks whether a truly authentic Japanese garden can exist outside Japan, or whether Western interpretations simply give these landscapes a distinctly Japanese voice.

Join Mike Hannah and Scott Langdale for an inspiring exploration of how Te Māra a Tāne Zealandia, the world's first fully fenced urban ecosanctuary, has transformed Wellington's biodiversity over the past 25 years. Discover how Zealandia's ambitious 500-year vision of restoring a thriving pre-human ecosystem has helped native wildlife return to the capital and sparked conservation initiatives such as Predator Free Wellington and Capital Kiwi. Drawing on backgrounds in science, sustainability, and environmental education, Mike and Scott will share the remarkable story of nature's recovery and what it means for the future of Aotearoa New Zealand.

Celebrate the start of summer with a sparkling evening of Art and Champagne at Normanby Fine Wines and Webb’s Wellington. Enjoy a private tour of the Into Summer exhibition, followed by eight exceptional Champagne tastings paired with carefully selected artworks, revealing surprising connections between creativity in the glass and on the gallery wall. With limited places available, this unique pre-Christmas event is perfect for art lovers, wine enthusiasts and anyone looking for a memorable festive-season experience.

Join the Friends of Te Papa on a four-day summer tour exploring the cultural treasures of Taranaki and Whanganui. Highlights include the renowned Tawhiti Museum, a Whanganui River cruise, the Sarjeant Gallery, NZ Glassworks, and an evening of Great Opera Moments at the historic Whanganui Opera House. Along the way, enjoy heritage sites, beautiful gardens, local art galleries, and the company of fellow Friends.

As a sponsor of the Gallipoli: The Scale of our War exhibition at Te Papa, Innovative Travel with over 35 years’ in-depth expertise in Turkey, offers a special journey for the Friends of Te Papa, including attendance at the Anzac commemorations on the Gallipoli Peninsula on 25 April 2027.

With Innovative Travel, experience the attentive care of our local Turkish team who provide 24/7 support, you’ll travel with peace of mind. This specially designed programme includes additional time on the Gallipoli Peninsula, with a Gallipoli specialist guide including many significant sites including Anzac Cove, the New Zealand site of Chunuk Bair, Lone Pine Cemetery, Hill 60, Johnston’s Jolly Cemetery, Helles Memorial and Lancashire Landing Cemetery. A special highlight includes viewing the Gallipoli campaign from both land and by boat on the Dardanelles. The special tour also offers a captivating blend of ancient wonders and stunning landscapes including visits to the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Istanbul, the ethereal terraces of Pamukkale, the surreal rock formations of Cappadocia, the grandeur of Ephesus and Pergamum and legendary Troy, each site whispers tales of civilizations past. Let Innovative Travel guide you on a journey that will inspire and connect to this land of history and natural wonder, crafted for the explorer within you.