Wellington Tramway Museum

When you visit the Wellington Tramway Museum you have the opportunity, not only of viewing our Museum display of tramway history, but of riding in one of the original Wellington trams that served Wellington city and its suburbs until the systems final closure in 1964. Our museum's tram-line is two kilometres long, running across Queen Elizabeth Park (one of Wellington's finest regional parks) to a Beach and picnic area. Travelling on it, you will relive the experience of a Wellington commuter of the first half of the 20th century who would use the trams to and from the city every day. The Wellington Tramway Museum is the repository for a representative collection of ex-Wellington city tramcars. Several are already restored and in operating condition - others are being restored or are to be restored. As well as the Wellington trams our museum has a large collection of artifacts, photographs, books, papers and other memorabilia from both Wellington and other tramway systems. Some of these items are on display and tell the story of the important part the trams played in the development of Wellington. Trams were an important catalyst in the development of many of Wellington's suburbs. As well there is an early Kelburn (Wellington) cable car and its trailer. The cable-car was in use until 1978 (being replaced at that time by a more modern version) and the trailer until 1974. The trailer was actually converted from an early Wellington horse-drawn tram and so dates back to the late 18th century. Our Museum is the perfect blend of history, recreation and education - very suitable as an enjoyable learning experience for the younger ones and perhaps a nostalgic trip down memory lane for the older folk. We look forward to welcoming you to the Wellington Tramway Museum, straight off State Highway One at MacKay's Crossing, between Paekakariki and Paraparaumu.