Explore Our Nation’s Military History in the Heart of the Capital
Pukeahu National War Memorial Park is our national place to remember and reflect on New Zealand’s experience of war, military conflict and peacekeeping.
Located in central Wellington, Pukeahu (the sacred hill) is an essential destination for all visitors to the city. Central to Pukeahu is the National War Memorial which commemorates New Zealanders who died in conflict and honours all those who have served. The park is a staging ground for national days of remembrance, most notably Anzac Day on 25 April each year.
Located just 15 minutes’ walk from Te Papa and the waterfront, it’s also the perfect place to bring a picnic; an oasis of quiet reflection in the middle of our vibrant capital city.
The National War Memorial Building is currently closed, except for commemorations and ceremonies, while we seismically strengthen the Carillon Tower. The rest of Pukeahu National War Memorial Park is open, safe and full of things to see and do.
The park grounds include seven international memorials; each one intricately designed to reflect the strong bonds between New Zealand and countries with which New Zealand has a shared military history.
Stop at the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior, the resting place for an unknown New Zealand soldier returned from the First World War battlefields of France, and stroll through the Ngā Tapuwae o te Kāhui Maunga (The Footsteps of the Ancestors) garden; designed in consultation with tangata whenua, this garden reflects the long relationship Māori have with the area.
Unveiled in March 2021, the beautiful bronze Pacific Islands Memorial, Te Reo Hotunui o Te-Moana-Nui-A-Kiwa (the deep sigh of the Pacific),is also a must see.
