Last updated July 2026
The Wellington Tramway Museum operates a collection of restored heritage trams in Queen Elizabeth Park at Paekakariki on the Kāpiti Coast. Located about 45 kilometres north of Wellington city, the museum runs working trams along a 2-kilometre track through coastal dunes and wetlands. It preserves vehicles and history from Wellington’s former tram network, which closed in 1964. Volunteers maintain the fleet and offer rides to the beach area within the park.
Practical Information
| Address | MacKay’s Crossing entrance, Queen Elizabeth Park, Paekakariki, Kāpiti Coast |
| Hours | Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays (except Christmas Day) from 11am, last tram departs 4pm; daily in January; limited school holiday weekdays — check website |
| Admission | Adults $12; children (5–15) $6; family (2 adults + up to 3 children) $30; under 5 free. Tickets allow unlimited rides on the day of issue |
| Getting There | Metlink Kāpiti Line train from Wellington Station to Paekakariki (approx. 50 minutes); short walk or drive to MacKay’s Crossing entrance |
| Other | Dogs welcome on leash; kiosk sells tickets, snacks and souvenirs |
About the Museum
The Wellington Tramway Museum was incorporated in 1964 as a non-profit organisation to preserve tramcars and tramway heritage after the closure of Wellington’s network. The first trams arrived at Queen Elizabeth Park in 1965, and the museum opened to the public that year with a short section of track. Volunteers have since extended the line to 2 kilometres one way and restored multiple vehicles dating from the 1900s to the 1930s.
Visitors ride restored trams through the park’s natural wetlands and sand dunes to a beach picnic area. A return journey takes 20–25 minutes, with trams departing approximately every 30 minutes on operating days. The museum building displays additional trams, memorabilia, models and a mock driving cab, while a small cinema shows historic footage of Wellington trams.
The site forms part of Queen Elizabeth Park, a regional park managed by Greater Wellington Regional Council that features beaches, walking and cycling trails, and remnants of its World War II use as a US Marine base. The nearby Paekakariki Station Museum adds further historical context about the area’s railway and wartime past.
Tram Rides and Museum Experience
Full admission includes unlimited tram rides for the day. The scenic route passes through dunes and wetlands with views toward the Tasman Sea. Volunteers operate the trams and are available to answer questions about the vehicles and Wellington’s tram history. The experience suits families and those interested in transport heritage.
Queen Elizabeth Park Setting
Queen Elizabeth Park stretches between Paekakariki and Raumati South along the Kāpiti Coast. It protects the last significant area of natural dunes on this stretch of coastline and offers walking tracks, beach access and open spaces. The tram museum sits near the MacKay’s Crossing entrance, making it a convenient starting point for exploring the park on foot or by bike.
Access and Getting There
The museum is reached by the Metlink Kāpiti Line train to Paekakariki station, followed by a short walk or drive to the MacKay’s Crossing entrance. By car, the site lies just off State Highway 1. Parking is available at the park entrance. The location is roughly a one-hour drive north of central Wellington.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors praise the enthusiastic volunteers who keep the heritage trams running and enjoy the affordable unlimited rides through the scenic park. Families appreciate the interactive elements like the mock tram cab and the chance to combine the visit with beach time or park walks.
Reviewers describe the museum as a focused, well-maintained attraction that offers a genuine working heritage experience rather than a static display. Many note the peaceful coastal setting and recommend it as a pleasant half-day outing from Wellington.
Where to Learn More
Wellington Tramway Museum official site: current opening dates, ticket prices, fleet details and event information.
Greater Wellington — Queen Elizabeth Park: park facilities, trails, history and access information.
Wellington Tramway Museum — Wikipedia: overview of the museum’s history and collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Wellington Tramway Museum?
At the MacKay’s Crossing entrance to Queen Elizabeth Park, Paekakariki, on the Kāpiti Coast about 45 kilometres north of Wellington city.
How much does admission cost?
Adults $12, children aged 5–15 $6, family (2 adults + up to 3 children) $30, under 5s free. Tickets allow unlimited tram rides on the day of purchase.
When is the museum open?
Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays except Christmas Day from 11am (last tram 4pm); daily throughout January; some school holiday weekdays. Always confirm current dates on the website.
Can I ride the trams without full admission?
Full admission is required for tram rides; there is no separate one-way tram-only ticket listed on the official site.
How do I get there by public transport?
Take the Metlink Kāpiti Line train from Wellington Station to Paekakariki (about 50 minutes), then walk or drive a short distance to the MacKay’s Crossing entrance.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, dogs are welcome on the trams provided they remain on a leash while the tram is moving.
Is the site suitable for children?
Yes, children enjoy the tram rides, mock driving cab and park setting. Under 5s enter free.
What else is there to do nearby?
Queen Elizabeth Park offers walking and cycling trails, beaches and the separate Paekakariki Station Museum covering the area’s World War II history.
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