In these modern, Edwardian and Gothic-styled buildings, historic events and people shaped the political life of New Zealand.
Discover the history of New Zealand’s political system at the Wellington Parliament. Tour through the buildings to learn about the important events and people who helped shape the country into what it is today. Enjoy the parliament buildings for their grand architecture, elegant artworks, décor and historic significance.
Wellington Parliament is comprised of four buildings: Parliament House, the Beehive, the Parliamentary Library and Bowen House. Enter the complex through the Beehive, a modern-designed building named for its unique shape. On the ground floor is the Visitor’s Centre where you can view a short video about the buildings and join a free-guided tour.
A tour through Parliament House will reveal ornate Edwardian neoclassical architecture and décor. View the elaborate embellishments of the Chamber, including the green furnishings that symbolise New Zealand's connection with the British House of Commons. Also notice the elegant artefacts that are made from New Zealand rimu timber. In the Māori Affairs Committee Room and the Matangireia Room, see artworks about New Zealand’s cross-cultural legacy. In the Pacific Room, people of Pacific origin are honoured for their contribution to the society. Browse the collection of native ferns in the Galleria and walk through the Legislative Council Chamber to see the arched stained-glass windows in the 27-metre (89-foot) Grand Hall.
Visit the public reading room of the Gothic-styled Parliamentary Library. Take a moment to relax in this working library where parliamentarians research national and interactional policy. Afterwards, visit the modern Bowen House and see where members of Parliament and their staff have their offices.
End your tour back at the Beehive where the offices of the Prime Minister and the cabinet ministers are held. On the first floor, take a look into the grand Banquet Hall, the biggest function room in the complex.
Located in Thorndon, Wellington Parliament is a short, 5-minute walk from Wellington railway station and 20-minutes by car from Wellington airport. Parking is not permitted on the grounds but metered parking is available on Molesworth Street and surrounding streets. Visitors with disabilities can be set down on the forecourt of the complex. Wellington Parliament is free to visit and is open daily except on public holidays.
