Recent social media posts
25/06/2026
Flashback Friday - Great image from the Fleet Air Arm Collection - pilots during training 1941 L-R: 'Mike Isherwood, Morris Dingwall, Charlie Goldie and Court St George ready for the morning flight'.
Image: from album compiled by Morris W Dingwall Object No: 2014.32.27
Read more about the Fleet Air Arm on our website: https://navymuseum.co.nz/explore/by-themes/aviation/rnzn-and-the-fleet-air-arm/
25/06/2026
On this day 76 years ago, 25 June 1950, the Korean War started when North Korean forces crossed the 38˚ N parallel and invaded South Korea. The United Nations passed a resolution calling for the assistance of all members to stop the North Korean aggression. On 29th June, the New Zealand Government decided to send two frigates in support of a United Nations Naval Force assisting South Korea. They left Auckland on 3rd July 1950. Over the period of the Korean War, six RNZN Loch Class Frigates saw service in Korea: HMNZS Pukaki, Tutira, Rotoiti, Hawea, Taupo, Kaniere. Read more about the Korean War on our website: https://navymuseum.co.nz/explore/by-themes/post-war-1970/korea-the-united-nations-war/
Image: HMNZS Taupo off Korea Winter 1951-1952 AAS 0078
24/06/2026
Artefact Unpacked - from the Collection. The Lusitania Medal - a German propaganda tool. As a reaction to the sinking of RMS Lusitania by torpedo on 7 May 1915, German artist Karl Goetz produced the Lusitania medal satirising the subject. One thousand one hundred and ninety eight people lost their lives. Read more about the sinking and the medal on our website: https://navymuseum.co.nz/explore/by-collections/artefact-unpacked/lusitania-medal/
Object No: MDC 0048
22/06/2026
Here's another fascinating object from the collection: a brass diver's wrist compass c1960s.
Object No: IDB 0001
21/06/2026
We are proud to have Built For This available instore and online!
Built for This follows Brad Poulter from a North End butchery in Oamaru to the mess decks of the Royal New Zealand Navy. A young sailor learning the ropes, trying to fit in, getting knocked down and rebuilding on his own terms. Growing up in Oamaru, Brad didn’t know that he was gay but he suspected that he was different from his classmates, and in small town, late 90’s New Zealand, he knew that being gay was unacceptable. He needed a different scene, so escaped to join the Navy - immediately finding a home in the strict rules and regulations. But keeping up the pretence of being straight came at a great cost - he kept pushing himself to take on bigger roles as a distraction and while stationed in Afghanistan during the War on Terror, the pressure to keep pretending became more overwhelming than the war itself, and it took a huge toll on his mental health and wellbeing. He finds belonging in the noise of the ship, the tempo, the people and the dark humour that gets you through. Mateship keeps him going. Owning his story sets him free. From cooking for a ship’s company to serving as a Military Police investigator, Built for This dives into life inside the Navy: the discipline, the deployments and the moments that test who you are. It is about the cost, the fallout and the courage to speak up when silence feels safer. Honest, raw and sometimes funny in the way only lived experience can be. Not a hero story. A true one, told straight(ish). Brad’s journey takes him from the lower decks to leading culture work for the New Zealand Defence Force, proof that purpose can grow from rough water.
19/06/2026
Whew, it's Saturday, and we're almost halfway through 2026! Are you feeling 'dog-tired' like this guy - HMS Philomel mascot c1920s.
Image: AAC 0173
16/06/2026
From the Collection: Siebe Gorman diving suit and equipment. This was the primary gear for divers in the Royal New Zealand Navy until the early 1960s. The suit is made from layers of rubberised twill reinforced on the knees and elbows. The helmet, made of copper and brass weighs 20kg. The boots are made from leather and wood with lead soles attached. The total weight of the suit is 84kg. The depth limitation of the diving suit is 55m; at any greater depth the CO₂ build-up in the helmet became dangerous.
Object No: IDB 0003
15/06/2026
Today's fascinating object is this station pointer used for horizontal sextant angle plotting in the survey ship HMNZS Lachlan. A station pointer is a navigational instrument that fixes a ship's position on a chart by determining its place relative to two landmarks or conspicuous objects at sea.
Object No: IBC 0030
13/06/2026
Last week, Devonport locals Debra and Peter Parussini enjoyed the opportunity to help our Guide Host Kathryn hoist the white ensign. image:
11/06/2026
Making and listening to music are great ways to entertain yourself and others. Here are a couple of sailors from HMNZS Rotoiti providing the entertainment during a deployment to the Pacific Islands, 1963
Image: GN 63 09919 01
Address
64 King Edward Parade Devonport
Auckland
0624
To reach your destination at King Edward Parade in Devonport, Auckland, you have a couple of convenient options for both public transport and driving.
**Public Transport:**
1. **Ferry:** Take a ferry from Auckland Central (Auckland Ferry Terminal) to Devonport. The ferry ride takes about 12 minutes.
2. **Bus:** If you're coming from other parts of Auckland, you can catch a bus to Devonport. Routes such as the 805 or 806 will take you to the Devonport area.
3. **Walking:** Once you arrive in Devonport, it’s a short walk to King Edward Parade. Follow the signs towards the waterfront.
**Driving/Parking:**
1. If you're driving, head towards Devonport via State Highway 1 and follow signs for Devonport.
2. Upon arrival in the village, look for parking options along Victoria Road or nearby streets.
3. There are also designated parking areas near the waterfront where you can leave your vehicle.
Make sure to check local traffic conditions and public transport schedules before your journey!
Opening Hours
| Monday |
10am - 5pm |
| Tuesday |
10am - 5pm |
| Wednesday |
10am - 5pm |
| Thursday |
10am - 5pm |
| Friday |
10am - 5pm |
| Saturday |
10am - 5pm |
| Sunday |
10am - 5pm |
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What people say
At Torpedo Bay Navy Museum, visitors are invited to embark on a captivating journey through the rich maritime history of New Zealand. The museum beautifully captures the memories, challenges, and triumphs of the brave men and women who have served in the navy, showcasing their courage and commitment to safeguarding the nation.
Nestled at the base of North Head with stunning views over Waitemata Harbour, this museum is not just a place to learn about naval history; it’s an experience that resonates with both residents and international visitors alike. The stories told within its walls highlight the vital role that the navy has played in New Zealand's security and development as an island nation.
Accessibility is a priority at Torpedo Bay Navy Museum, ensuring that everyone can enjoy its offerings. It's conveniently located just a short 15-minute walk from Devonport Wharf or easily reachable via public transport.
For those looking to host events, the Whakatere Conference Room provides a unique venue within this historic setting, complete with catering options tailored to your needs.
Families will find plenty to engage young minds through diverse educational programs designed for schools and community groups. With exhibition tours and free resources available, it's an excellent opportunity for learning in an inspiring environment.
Torpedo Bay Navy Museum is more than just a museum; it’s a tribute to New Zealand's naval heritage that promises an enriching experience for all who visit.
