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

Lunar New Year Dinner at Te Papa

Experience an intimate Lunar New Year celebration at Te Papa with a three-course dinner, fine wine, cultural ambience, and exclusive harbour views of the fireworks display. 

When | Āhea

Sat 21 Feb 2026, 7pm to 10pm

Where | Ki hea

Rongomaraeroa, the marae, Level 4

Cost | Te utu

$180 ($150 for non-alcoholic option) 

Celebrate Lunar New Year in Wellington with an intimate dining experience on Rongomaraeroa at Te Papa, one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most significant gathering spaces. This exclusive evening brings together a beautifully crafted three-course dinner, fine New Zealand wines, and live musical performances, all set within the heart of the national museum.

Throughout the evening, enjoy live performances by Athena Zuo and Cassie Zhang on guzheng and piano, creating a rich soundscape as you dine. 

As night falls, step out to the museum’s exclusive viewing space for one of the best views in Wellington of the Lunar New Year fireworks, lighting up the harbour below and offering a rare perspective away from the waterfront crowds.

Mark the Year of the Horse with an evening of shared food, music, and celebration in one of Aotearoa’s most significant spaces, overlooking Te Whanganui-a-Tara.

Menu

Citrus Cured King Salmon Yu Sheng Salad

Citrus-cured king salmon, julienne daikon & carrot, pickled cucumber, crispy wonton shards, toasted peanuts & sesame, coriander, mandarin dressing.

Red Braised Beef Short Rib, Longevity Noodle Nest

Whole spice braised beef short rib, ginger spring onion pomme puree, stir-fried gai lan with garlic, crispy longevity egg noodle nest, braising jus with black vinegar & Shaoxing wine. 

Jasmine tea Panna Cotta, Nian Gao Crumble

Jasmine tea panna cotta, warm baked nian gao crumble, mandarin sorbet, lychee gel, black sesame tuile, gold leaf.

Guests will be welcomed with a glass of bubbles on arrival, with wines served alongside each course.

A range of dietary requirements can be accommodated. Simply note yours when booking.

Lunar New Year Dinner at Te Papa, 2025, Photo by Larissa Warren

Lunar New Year Dinner at Te Papa, 2025, Photo by Larissa Warren

Lunar New Year Dinner at Te Papa, 2025, Photo by Larissa Warren

Lunar New Year Dinner at Te Papa, 2025, Photo by Larissa Warren

Chinese New Year Festival of Fireworks, 2021, Photo by Jun Yamog

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