A smash-hit family exhibition from Scienceworks in Melbourne will touch down in Kirikiriroa Hamilton this month, as Air Playground opens at Te Whare Taonga o Waikato Museum and Gallery on 31 October.
Hamilton will be the first city in New Zealand to host Air Playground, which explores the invisible but powerful world of air. On tour from Museums Victoria after a successful run at Scienceworks in Melbourne, the hands-on exhibition has captivated people of all ages with its playful approach to science and discovery.
Visitors are invited to step into a world of fun and discovery to explore the science of aerodynamics through 10 large-scale interactive experiences including:
- Squish: Embark on a full-body experience as you squish and squash a giant jumping inflatable sculpture. It’s like a giant hug from the air as you learn about how gases move in the soft container underneath and around you.
- Fly: Experiment with air resistance by crafting different paper plane designs and launching them to discover which plane can fly the furthest and why. It’s an aviation enthusiast’s dream come true.
- Whoosh: Brace yourself for a whirlwind of excitement as you ‘whoosh’ scarves through a tangle of air tubes and try to catch them as they are ejected high above and drift down towards you, cushioned by the air like a parachute.
Te Whare Taonga o Waikato Museum and Gallery curator, Jon Primmer said kids will love Air Playground’s colourful, immersive blend of entertainment and education where learning is as exciting as it is enlightening.
“Air Playground is not only a celebration of the wonders of the atmosphere but a fun-filled day out for families to explore and learn through play.”
Air Playground opens at Te Whare Taonga o Waikato Museum and Gallery on 31 October and runs until 19 April 2026. This is a ticketed exhibition, with tickets on sale now at tewharetaonga.nz.
