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

Lunar New Year Late Night

Celebrate Lunar New Year at Te Papa with late-night museum opening and a stunning waterfront fireworks finale for an unforgettable cultural evening experience.

When | Āhea

Sat 21 Feb 2026, 6pm to 9pm

Where | Ki hea

Whole Museum (not including Rongomaraeroa) 

Cost | Te utu

Free, with museum entry 

Celebrate Lunar New Year with Te Papa at a special late-night museum opening! The museum will remain open until 9pm, giving you extra time to explore, celebrate, and immerse yourself in the festivities. Then, continue the magic just steps away on the waterfront, where a dazzling fireworks display will light up the night sky. Join us for an unforgettable evening of culture, colour, and celebration, this is perfect for families, friends, and anyone looking to welcome the New Year in spectacular style.

In addition to remaining open until 9pm, this is an opportunity to hear from internationally acclaimed dancer, choreographer, and filmmaker, Daniel Belton, creator of the trilogy of films, HORSES, DRAGON, and TIGER

Daniel will provide some insights into his creative process of development and collaboration with dancers, musicians and digital artists prior to the screening of HORSES, DRAGON, and TIGER

Following completion of screening of the films, you can enjoy a dragon dance performance in Te Papa’s Wellington Foyer before heading outside to view the fireworks display.

For a special experience, book a seat at an intimate three-course dinner with wine pairings on Rongomaraeroa with an exclusive viewing space for the fireworks. Find out more here.

Photo by Jun Yamog, courtesy of Asian Events Trust

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