Explore four huge buildings packed with memorabilia when you visit the National Transport and Toy Museum. One of the southern hemisphere's largest private collections open to the public holds more than 60,000 toys, including action figures, dolls, pedal cars and over 600 civilian and military vehicles.
Start your visit in the main building, a treasure trove of toys from years gone by. Among them are die-cast models, teddy bears, model trains and Star Wars figurines. There is also an interactive play area for younger visitors.
Walk over to Hangar One and Hangar Two for the collection of military and civilian aircraft and cars. They include propeller aircraft from the 1930s to the 1990s, jet engines and classic cars from the 1920s and 1930s. Browse motorbikes from the 1920s to the early 2000s. Walk through the Fokker Friendship aircraft, a Rolls Royce turboprop plane that was in service for New Zealand domestic flights from 1960 until the 1980s.
The National Transport & Toy Museum also boasts a collection of steam-operated vehicles, including a crane, boat, trains and engines.
If you're feeling energetic, enjoy a ride through the museum's 16-acre (6.5-hectare) grounds on an adult-sized pedal car. Climb inside a Centurion tank and a caterpillar loader. Relax over lunch at one of the picnic tables. Bring food with you or purchase something from the café.
Finish your visit inside the fire station. Browse the collection of trucks, tractors and toys. There are more than 30 fire engines from the 1930s to the present day.
Find the museum next to Wanaka Airport, approximately 6 miles (9 kilometers) from the resort town of Wanaka. There is no public transportation to the popular attraction, but you can book local shuttles and taxis. Alternatively, drive, and use the free parking facilities.
The National Transport and Toy Museum is open daily except for Christmas Day, and discounts on admission are available for senior citizens and children under the age of 18. There is no charge for children under 5 years old.
