Otago Museum
Otago Museum things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
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I had a fantastic visit to the Tuhura Otago Museum! The building itself is stunning, with a perfect blend of modern design and historical charm. There’s so much to see, and the majority of the museum is free to explore (you can donate). The highlight of my visit was definitely the impressive collection of animals on display. From fascinating natural history exhibits to rare specimens, it was a real treat for anyone interested in wildlife. Equally captivating were the exhibits on Māori culture, which offered insight into the traditions, art, and history of the indigenous people of New Zealand. Both these sections were not only educational but visually striking as well. Parking is ok, with street parking available or a nearby parking lot. Best of all, parking is free on Sundays. There is a nice museum restaurant and toilets are clean. Overall, the Otago Museum is a must-visit for anyone in Dunedin, offering an enriching experience for visitors of all ages!
NikitaNikita
00
Science centre was very disappointing. Many of the exhibits were under repair. There was no explainations of the actual science involved and it just seemed like a chaotic creche with screaming children everywhere smashing things and not appreciating the science. Some exhibits such as the earthquake machine had missing pieces so one couldn't get a true appreciation of structural engineering in seismic zones. Also, no good explaination or advice on the best types of structure. I had to use my own 20 years of engineering knowledge to build a structure that looked impressive under resonance. I wish other people could appreciate it. Tornado machine looked cool but offered no explaination on what was going on. Electromagnetism area had token efforts of experiments that offered no explaination of what was going on. When I demonstrated eddy current braking and making the ball bearing float, some people looked on in amazement. I could only demonstrate because I know the phenomenons. It should be a place of learning. Highlight was the tropical rainforest which upgrades this review to 2 stars but honestly, not worth the $20.
Lewie Lewie (Lewie)Lewie Lewie (Lewie)
00
I loved the Museum! The butterfly and sea monsters exhibits were well worth the entry fee. We started by going through the science section of the Museum, which had lots of really exciting interactive exhibits that encouraged experimentation and play, even in adults. Highlights included the tornado machine, the bumpy slide (you’ve got to try it), the multiplayer pacman machine, and the colour-mood dome. After this, we went through the sea monsters exhibit, where you could see replicas of real fossils of giant sea monsters that have been uncovered around the world. It was awesome to see how big and terrifying some of them are. I also really enjoyed being able to draw and scan my own sea monster into the virtual tank! The butterflies were my favourite overall. You can go into a hot, humid room and let butterflies land on you! There were also lots of beautiful birds flying around, and a giant centipede! (Or was it a millipede?) Either way, a day well spent.
Joshua MartinsenJoshua Martinsen
40
The planetarium and science center needs tickets all but is free. The Museum is a captivating blend of culture and architecture. Its modernist design with sleek lines and glass panels creates a visually appealing exterior. Inside, the exhibits are thoughtfully curated and arranged, taking visitors on a journey through time and showcasing the history and culture of Otago and the Pacific region. The exhibition design is meticulous, utilizing lighting, graphics, and multimedia elements to bring the displays to life. Sustainability is a priority, with eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient systems incorporated throughout the building. The museum actively engages the community through educational programs and interactive exhibits. Amenities like a café and gift shop add to the visitor experience. Overall, the Otago Museum is a remarkable fusion of culture, architecture, and sustainability. It offers an enriching exper
M Tawfique RahmanM Tawfique Rahman
10
We had the best afternoon, we went to the Buttfly experience and the Predators of the Ocean Exhibit 🙂 There was 2x adults and 1x child combined entry tickets that were slightly discounted. The 360 degree dome was a great experience, the movie showed the story of a smaller ancestors of the dolphins from birth until death, everyone enjoyed the whole 45 mins. The Butterfly experience was amazing, very very hot and humid though. Saw large blue butterflies, free flying finches, large tarantulas but they were in their own display habitates We went into the child science explore area and found things to do including a twisty slide 🙂 We had lunch in the cafe, the food was well priced and reasonable large servings. I asked the busy staff for salt and pepper and was immediately given them. Bought a $3 erasable pen for the child as a souvenir 🙂 Totally recommend to visit the museum for children and adults if you are in Dunedin.
Simone TempletonSimone Templeton
20
When we arrived in Dunedin, everyone told us that one must go was Otago Museum and they were absolutely correct. To start, the bagels of the museum’s cafe are the best we ever had. Don’t miss the chance to try! After an amazing breakfast, it was time to explore the whole museum for around 2h. The staff was super helpful and professional! Beyond the free (awesome) exhibitions, butterflies space, one floor just about the NZ’s animals (including Moa and Albatrosses) and planetarium, they were with a special Titanic exhibition (extra fee) that we loved it, with 3 special videos explaining about the “Titanic’s world” even like James Cameron journey to the most deep point in the world. We loved everything and for sure Otago Museum it’s an attraction not to be missed and we highly recommend it when in Dunedin!!! We’re very excited to explore again the museum next time in the city. Thanks, guys :)
Fernanda TinôcoFernanda Tinôco
10
Nearby Attractions Of Otago Museum
Otago Farmers Market, Every Saturday Morning
Olveston Historic Home
University of Otago
Mei Wah Takeaways
Aurora on George
George Street Motel Apartments
The Dunedin Museum of Natural Mystery
Rob Roy Dairy
Logan Park
Knox Church
Otago Farmers Market, Every Saturday Morning
4.6
(676)Click for details
Olveston Historic Home
4.7
(449)Click for details
University of Otago
4.7
(256)Click for details
Mei Wah Takeaways
4.3
(137)Click for details
Nearby Restaurants Of Otago Museum
RE Burger Dunedin
Lone Star Dunedin
Huzur Kebab
Emerson's Brewery
IRONIC
Joe's Garage Dunedin
Chopsticks 101
BurgerFuel Dunedin North
The Good Earth Cafe
La Porchetta Restaurant Dunedin
RE Burger Dunedin
4.7
(1K)Click for details
Lone Star Dunedin
4.2
(636)$$
Click for details
Huzur Kebab
4.9
(506)Click for details
Emerson's Brewery
4.4
(522)$$
Click for details
Learn more insights from Wanderboat AIBasic Info
Address
419 Great King Street, Dunedin North, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand
Map
Phone
+64 3 474 7474
Call
Website
otagomuseum.nz
Visit
Reviews
Overview
4.7
(1.7K reviews)
Ratings & Description
cultural
family friendly
accessibility
Description
Tūhura Otago Museum is located near the city centre of Dunedin, New Zealand, adjacent to the University of Otago campus. The museum has one of the largest collections in New Zealand, and is one of the city's leading attractions.
attractions: Otago Farmers Market, Every Saturday Morning, Olveston Historic Home, University of Otago, Mei Wah Takeaways, Aurora on George, George Street Motel Apartments, The Dunedin Museum of Natural Mystery, Rob Roy Dairy, Logan Park, Knox Church, restaurants: RE Burger Dunedin, Lone Star Dunedin, Huzur Kebab, Emerson's Brewery, IRONIC, Joe's Garage Dunedin, Chopsticks 101, BurgerFuel Dunedin North, The Good Earth Cafe, La Porchetta Restaurant Dunedin
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