MOTAT opened in 1964 and since then has been explored and enjoyed by millions of  local, national and international visitors. MOTAT is an interactive museum with a focus on creating a fun, visually stimulating environment for its visitors.

The Museum is built on a site that once pumped water drawn from Western Springs Lake to early Auckland homes and businesses. The Pumphouse, with its magnificent Beam Engine has had extensive conservation to ensure its significance in Auckland's history is preserved.