Last updated June 2026
Archives New Zealand — Te Rua Mahara o te Kāwanatanga — is the official government archive holding New Zealand’s public records from the earliest European settlement to the present. The Wellington reading room provides public access to original documents including Treaty of Waitangi records, government departmental files, court records, land records, military service files, immigration and naturalisation records, and more. Researchers must request specific items in advance using the online pre-order form; the archive confirms availability before the visit. The facility is free to use and forms part of the Department of Internal Affairs.
Practical Information
| Address | Te Kahu Heritage Campus (Te Rua building), Wellington |
| Reading room hours | Monday to Friday, 10am – 5pm |
| Saturday | 9am – 1pm (Archives collections not available) |
| Entry | Free |
| Booking | Required — complete the Wellington reading room pre-order form on archives.govt.nz and wait for confirmation before visiting; bring photo ID |
| Phone | (04) 499 5595 |
| re***************@******vt.nz | |
| Location | Shared heritage campus with National Library of New Zealand |
About Archives New Zealand
Archives New Zealand manages the nation’s official records and operates under the Department of Internal Affairs. The Wellington reading room serves as the primary public access point for the most significant collections, which include central government agency files, court and justice records, armed forces material, and key documents relating to Māori land and Crown interactions.
The reading room is now located in the purpose-built Te Rua building within the Te Kahu heritage campus in Wellington. This modern facility connects physically with the National Library via a two-level bridge, creating a cohesive site for multiple heritage institutions. The move to the new campus followed the closure of the previous Mulgrave Street site for several months in 2025.
Most records are available to the public, although some items carry access restrictions. The online catalogue at collections.archives.govt.nz lets researchers search holdings, check access status, and prepare requests ahead of a visit. Archivists are on hand during opening hours to assist with enquiries.
What You Can Research
The archive holds extensive material spanning the 19th century to the present. Heavily used collections include World War I and II military service records, naturalisation and immigration files, early land records and surveys, court and justice documents, and government departmental files. The online catalogue indicates which items are open for viewing and supports pre-visit planning.
Where to Learn More
Archives New Zealand — Visit a Reading Room: Current opening hours, addresses, and step-by-step instructions for requesting records and visiting.
Archives New Zealand Collections Catalogue: Search Wellington holdings, check access restrictions, and prepare record requests online.
Archives New Zealand Contact Us: Updated contact details, email addresses, and reading room information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Archives New Zealand reading room in Wellington?
It is now located in the Te Rua building at the Te Kahu Heritage Campus, shared with the National Library of New Zealand.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes — complete the pre-order form on archives.govt.nz to request specific records. Wait for confirmation before visiting and bring photo ID.
What are the current opening hours?
Monday to Friday 10am to 5pm. Saturday 9am to 1pm (Archives collections not available on Saturday).
Is access free?
Yes — entry to the reading room and viewing records is free. Some reproduction services may incur fees.
What records can I access?
Government files, military service records, immigration and naturalisation documents, court files, land records, and more from the 19th century onward. The catalogue shows access status for each item.
Can I search online before visiting?
Yes — use the catalogue at collections.archives.govt.nz to identify records and check their availability and access conditions.
Has the reading room moved?
Yes — the previous Mulgrave Street location closed in mid-2025. The service reopened in September 2025 at the new Te Kahu Heritage Campus.
Who can I contact for help?
Use re***************@******vt.nz or phone (04) 499 5595 for enquiries about collections and visits.
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