Accessibility and Facilities
Learn about the wide range of facilities and services available to our visitors, including those for people with disabilities and accessibility issues, so you can get the most out of your visit!
The Quartermaster Store
The Quartermaster Store specialises in military related gifts and memorabilia as well as New Zealand and local related gifts. It is located adjacent to The Mess Tent cafe or visit our online Shop.
The Mess Tent Café
Visitors can enjoy lunch and a coffee in our military themed café, looking out to majestic views of Mt Ruapehu. The Café offers a tasty selection of homemade cabinet food as well as an extensive all day menu. Open everyday from 7.00am to 4.00pm. We also cater to groups.
Kids Headquarters
An interactive space for families where learning meets play. The Kids HQ offers hands-on fun for all ages. The purpose built gallery is open everyday and includes a journey through various army fortifications from palisades to pill boxes, as well as a number of interactive activities including puzzles and a Q Store full of authentic army uniforms from different historical periods that children can dress up in.
Electric Charging Stations
The Museum is committed to sustainability, and has two electric car charging stations courtesy of Powerco and ChargeNet. These are conveniently located in the front carpark of the Museum just off State Highway One.
Free WiFi
The Museum has free WiFi for all customers.
Food and Drink at the Museum
Food and drink is not permitted within the Museum’s galleries and displays. The Museum has a great café, or visitors are welcome to sit outside on one of our numerous picnic tables.
Photography and Filming
The Museum permits non-commercial photography (including flash) and video recording using hand-held equipment throughout its galleries. For commercial photos and filming please contact us.
Bags
The Museum does not permit bags into its galleries – except small handbags and camera bags, or bags for medical reasons. We recommend your bags are left in your vehicle, or with our staff at the admission desk.
Baby Changing
There are baby changing facilities in both the accessible toilet and in the female toilets adjacent to The Mess Tent café in the Museum.
Accessibility
Designated mobility parking is available directly outside the main doors of both the front and back carparks to the Museum. There are two wheelchairs available inside the Museum for customer use – please ask at the admission desk. Inside the Museum galleries there are a few seats scattered around as well as transportable perching stools you can carry with you whilst browsing through the displays. Inside the Museum’s galleries there is a lift located behind the greenstone memorial, as well as another for those wishing to visit the Kippenberger Research Library or Archives. The Museum’s toilets are located near The Mess Tent café and The Quartermaster Store, which includes a mobility accessible toilet.
Seismic Update
In September 2024, a seismic assessment revealed an area of the Museum fell below the new building standards, which led to that area being deemed an earthquake prone building. After a detailed risk assessment and in consultation with engineers and relevant subject matter experts, we have the confidence to remain fully open while we work through longer-term solutions.
We’d Love to Hear From You
From museum visits to research support, our team is ready to assist you on your journey through New Zealand’s military history.