Disney: The Magic of Animation

Every Disney character starts with a drawing. Discover how they are brought to the screen at ‘Disney: The Magic of Animation | Ngā Tāoreore Tūmatarau’. See the internationally acclaimed exhibition at Tākina Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre.

The exhibition features artworks from classic stories and films spanning 100 years of Walt Disney Animation Studios. See more than 600 art pieces up close, from original sketches of timeless characters to modern, computer-generated wonders. Go behind the scenes to witness the artistry that goes into creating beloved on-screen characters.

Disney: The Magic of Animation is curated by the team at the Walt Disney Animation Research Library. It offers a rare glimpse at the development of characters and animation techniques. See works from classics like Mickey Mouse’s first talkie ‘Steamboat Willieʻ (1928) and ‘Fantasia’ (1940). Don’t miss modern favourites like ‘Frozen’ (2013) and ‘Raya and the Last Dragon’ (2021). Artwork from Disney’s latest release, ‘Moana 2’, is also included in the exhibition.

The exhibition features interactive animation stations for kids of all ages. Practice your colouring magic or enjoy costumes for the little ones. Take a spin with Belle and the Beast in the ballroom, and watch Alice forever falling through an immersive projection experience.

Kristen McCormick, Art Exhibitions & Conservation Manager of the Walt Disney Animation Research Library, helped curate the exhibition. Kristen and her team hand-selected the artworks on display from a collection of over 65 million.

This is the first time Disney: The Magic of Animation has come to New Zealand and is exclusive to Wellington.

Disney: The Magic of Animation events

VIP Opening Gala

Wednesday 19 February 2025

Be among the first to see this New Zealand-exclusive exhibition at the VIP opening of Disney: The Magic of Animation. From timeless sketches to computer-generated wonders – you’ll see it all at Tākina before the public does. There’ll be a DJ playing well-known Disney tunes all night, as well as a selection of food and drink. If cosplay is your thing you may get a spot prizes for the best Disney-inspired costume.

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Magic After Hours with Disney

Last Thursday of every month

Take an after-hours opportunity to explore Disney: The Magic of Animation. Meet up with friends after work or take your favourite person out for date night. The sessions are running between 5pm and 7pm on the last Thursday of each month, and you must be over 18 to attend. Tickets include entry to the exhibition plus a complimentary drink and shared grazing platters on arrival. Listen out for the playlist of your favourite Disney songs, too.

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Disney Crafting

Every Sunday in March

Here’s a crafty way to make your visit to Disney: The Magic of Animation even more fun. Create your own unique set of Mickey ears with special craft material — all you need to bring is your imagination. Every Sunday in March between 9.30am and 1.30pm you can make your Disney experience even more memorable. Families with children of all ages are welcome but kids under the age of 13 must be accompanied by an adult. Each ticket to this activity includes one set of Mickey ears and entry to the exhibition.

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Be Our Guest – Magic Dance Party

Saturday 12 April

Boogie the night away at a special Disney-inspired dance party. Revisit some of Disney’s most popular songs at this enchanted night on 12 April. An enchanted dance party for the attendees between 6pm and 9pm before they go through the exhibition with prince, princess, and hero dress up characters, face painting, and balloon twisters coming along to provide entertainment. Dress up as your most beloved Disney character and be in to win some wonderful spot prizes. Each ticket to this event includes entry to the exhibition. Children under the age of 16 must be always accompanied by an adult.

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A Bella Notte with Disney

Saturday 17 May 2025

Spend a romantic evening Disney-style at this special event. Whether you’ve been together for 30 years or three days, spoil that ‘someone special’ in your life. Start the night by exploring the exhibition, and once you’re finished let one of the waiters show you to your table for two. Your romantic dinner includes the best spaghetti bolognese in town, just like ‘Lady and the Tramp’, followed by platters of Disney-inspired sweet treats.

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