Wellington Cable Car Museum product reviews

As museums go, they tend to fall into few broad categories, those you get to stare at old things stuck behind glass, and those where you have the chance to dive in elbow-deep and see how it ticks. This place falls mainly into the first category, though in this case I fully understand why. After all, how would you 'play' with a cablecar?! Interaction rating is very low, because about the only thing you WERE allowed to interact with was the cablecar that greeted you as you walk in the front door, and that was only interactive in that you were allowed to climb up and sit on the side-seats. With the car normally on an angle, but displayed level... the seats are cocked at an awkward and somewhat uncomfortable angle.

But that's where the negatives end. The content of the museum is of great interest to anyone with a mental bent for history and/or engineering, especially down on the lower floor where you could see the huge cable winches in action. Also, the upper floor, where you gain entry, contains a small theatre area with comfy seating where you can watch some quite involved mini-docos.

Overall, a novel way to pass half an hour, and quite nice to warder around in, sheltering from the heat of the noon sun, before you continue your wanderings around the Botanical Gardens. Also keep in mind that is it right next to a nice little cafe, the Carter Observatory, and is surrounded by some stunning views. Aim for a sunny day, and enjoy!