Whales | Tohorā

Explore the amazing world of whales, through a unique blend of science and storytelling.

This exhibition draws on one of the largest whale collections in the world – at Te Papa, New Zealand. See enormous skeletons, explore whaling history, build a dolphin and more.

Whale People

Humans have revered whales, hunted them, and explored their astounding adaptations to life in the sea. Meet some of the people whose lives have been inextricably linked with whales – from legendary South Pacific whale riders to whale scientists and former whaling families.

Whale Lab

Plunge into the world of whales. Discover how their bodies work and explore their extraordinary lifestyles – from some of the smallest dolphins to the mightiest creature on Earth.

Whales | Tohorā exhibition, 2007. Photograph by Michael Hall. Te Papa

Education resources

These education resources support a teacher-guided visit to the exhibition. They have been developed for both primary schools and secondary schools.

Installation shot of the exhibition space, featuring models, skeletons, and TV screen

International touring schedule

The ‘Whales | Tohorā’ tour calendar.