Free museum entry for New Zealanders and people living in New Zealand

Bug of the Year Collection Tour

Buzzing for bugs? Don’t miss this rare opportunity to get up close with this year’s Bug of the Year nominees and winner.

When | Āhea

Wed 11 Feb 2026, 11.00am–12.00pm

Wed 11 Feb 2026, 12.30–1.30pm

Wed 11 Feb 2026, 5.30pm–6.30pm

Where | Ki hea

Te Papa Collection Area, 169 Tory Street – this event is not at the main Te Papa museum

Cost | Te utu

Free event, but booking is essential

Lead Curator Invertebrates Dr Julia Kasper and Curator Invertebrates Phil Sirvid will lead a behind-the-scenes tour in our natural history collection. 

Learn about the unsung heroes of Aotearoa New Zealand’s biodiversity and how they impact our ecosystems.

This year, the tours will feature mini talks from bug enthusiasts campaigning for their favourite nominee.

Tours take place at:

  • 11am

  • 12.30pm

  • 5.30pm

Tickets include insect-inspired refreshment and must be reserved in advance.

Julia Kasper looking at the Hudson Collection, 2018. Photograph by Rachael Hockridge. Te Papa (109965)