Take a tour through Wellington Parliament to learn about New Zealand’s political system. Discover the landmark events and personalities who shaped the country. Even those not interested in politics will enjoy the Parliament’s stately architecture, decor and artworks.
Four buildings make up the complex: Parliament House, the Beehive, the Parliamentary Library and Bowen House. Begin at the Visitor Centre, located on the ground floor foyer of the Beehive, a building named for its distinctive shape. View the short informative video about the parliamentary complex before joining a free guided tour.
Admire the Edwardian neoclassical architecture and decor of Parliament House. The Chamber has ornate furnishings, artifacts made from rimu timber and green fittings that reflect the British House of Commons. Walk through the Māori Affairs Committee Room and the Matangireia Room to see artworks that symbolise New Zealand’s cross-cultural heritage. The Pacific Room honours the contributions of Pacific peoples to New Zealand society. Walk through the Galleria with its collection of native ferns, and then see the Legislative Council Chamber and the 89-foot (27-metre) Grand Hall with its arched stained-glass windows.
Relax awhile in the public reading room in the Victorian Gothic-styled Parliamentary Library, a working library for research on anything related to national and international government policy. Afterwards, see Bowen House, a modern office building complex for members of Parliament and their support staff.
Back at the Beehive, you’ll find the offices for the Prime Minister and the cabinet ministers. On the first floor is the Banquet Hall, the largest function room in the complex.
Located in Thorndon, Wellington Parliament is an easy 5-minute walk from Wellington railway station and a 20-minute drive from Wellington airport. There is no parking available in the grounds, however, visitors with disabilities may be set down on the forecourt. Metered car parking is available on Molesworth Street and surrounding streets. There is no charge to visit Wellington Parliament, which is open daily, with the exception of public holidays.
