Culture

  1. Events
  2. Culture

Events Search and Views Navigation

Event Views Navigation

Today

Dutch 17c Painting: Johannes Vermeer 1632-75

Soundings Theatre, Level 2 Te Papa 55 Cable Street, Wellington, New Zealand

Only 36 paintings are attributed to Johannes Vermeer, but they are among the most revered in the history of art. Join Oxford University lecturer Alice Foster as we take a closer look at these celebrated works of art.

Vermeer began his career painting large scale biblical and mythological subjects but switched to small scale genre scenes depicting daily life above and below stairs.

The works are remarkable for their purity of light, clarity of execution and a serene, timeless dignity.  But there is often an edge, something unresolved in Vermeer’s work, that leaves us with a sense of mystery.

Get Tickets $30.00 – $35.00 10 tickets left

Intriguing Textile Treatments & Techniques: Japan, Malay Archipelago & Uzbekistan’s Textile Wonders

Te Huinga Centre, Level 3, Te Papa 55 Cable Street, Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand

Prepare to journey across continents and centuries with Shani Pillai & Joji Jacob, as they showcase four extraordinary textile traditions that transform humble fibres into unique expressions of culture! Our discovery takes us from the West of Japan to the South of Japan, then on to the Malay Archipelago

Get Tickets $25.00 – $30.00 30 tickets left

2025 Chatham Islands Excursions

Since 2002 these excursions to the Chatham Islands has been offered to, and enjoyed by, many Friends of Te Papa. Touring with Hamish and Chris is a rare opportunity to visit the Chathams in a safe and convivial context. The plan is to visit Chatham and Pitt Island, sea and air conditions permitting.

Whanganui Historic Homes Tour

8-11 October 2025 A guided tour of historic homes around Whanganui, we are led by a local historian to look at many aspects of New Zealand history, including settlement, lifestyle, and design. We view private properties that are not open to the general public, hidden away in the beautiful New Zealand countryside where little has changed since their period of construction, between 1880–1915.

Dunedin Art & History Tour

15-19 November 2025 Join us for a custom-made adventure to Dunedin, where we'll immerse ourselves in the rich history, vibrant art, and captivating culture as we explore a variety of fascinating locations.
Your journey begins with a warm welcome dinner at the luxurious Fable Dunedin, your home base for the next four nights. Our tour begins with a guided exploration of New Zealand’s oldest gasworks museum, the Dunedin Gasworks Museum, followed by an inspiring visit to the dynamic Tūhura Otago Museum. Step back in time at the majestic Larnach Castle, where you’ll soak in its rich history and indulge in a classic Victorian High Tea with breathtaking views. Wander through the city’s vibrant art scene, discovering gems like the Brett McDowell Gallery, Milford Gallery, and the Dunedin Public Art Gallery, all while taking in the charm and character of Dunedin with insights from our expert local guide. We'll end on a high note with an elegant farewell dinner at the historic Olveston House, a perfect finale to your Dunedin adventure.