< The Otago Museum is one of the prime Dunedin attractions found a mere 1.5km away from Kingsgate Hotel Dunedin. Founded as early as 1868, only two decades after the Dunedin settlement was established, this museum has some of the finest collections in the country, pertaining to human history and natural science. It also boasts close ties with the University of Otago, under whose authority the museum has functioned since 1977.

The museum is divided into three segments showcasing history, natural history and galleries devoted to touring exhibitions. Among the “People of the World” exhibits are included the most significant collection of ceramics in New Zealand, featuring many examples of ancient Greek pottery, a classical collection that is the most important in Australasia and a much-lauded collection of Pacific Island artifacts. The “Southern land, Southern People” display is of keen local interest, tracing the prehistory and history of Otago. Other items of note include the Egyptian relics and other artifacts and costumes collected from diverse regions of the world.

The natural history collection houses many remarkable collections, not the least of which is the New Zealand avian exhibit, holding the largest collection of Moa remains in the world. “ Tropical Forest” is a three-storied display featuring flora and fauna from all over the world, most noted for its butterfly specimens from Asia and the Caribbean. The natural history collection as a whole boasts an extensive collection of pinned and labeled insects, as well as an “Animal Attic” section at the top of the building, showcasing exotic animals, birds and rocks in a Victorian-style museum.
 
“Discovery World” is a great children’s draw, being an interactive, hands on science centre designed especially for them. Other facilities include lecture theatres, a souvenir store and a research centre.
Visitors to this museum can come away enriched with the knowledge of the intricate natural wonders and proud history of the Dunedin’s people.