Kia ora. Haere mai and welcome to the Otago Settlers Museum History

The museum was established in 1898 - the 50th anniversary of the founding of Dunedin city and the Otago Province - and continues to flourish as one of New Zealand's most significant social history museums. Originally created to tell the story of the early British settlers to this region, the Otago Settlers Museum now celebrates all the peoples of Otago including indigenous Maori, the Chinese who came initially to work the goldfields in the 19th century, and successive waves of migrant groups, including those from Lebanon, Poland, Holland, the Pacific Islands and many parts of Asia. Otago's history includes an impressive record of technological innovation; changes in everyday life over time; and the way in which transportation enriched and enlivened our region are just some of the other stories we tell.

We care not only for memorabilia harking back to the days of early settlement but also for a fascinating array of treasures relating to all realms of life in Otago from the Victorian era to modern times. Extensive collections of portraits, documents, nineteenth century artworks, costume, domestic technology, transport and more are used to paint a lively picture of city and provincial life through the ages and into the present day. As well as its long-term displays, the Museum presents a varied programme of changing exhibitions. Lectures, floor talks and performances supplement these exhibitions and the museum's education programme introduces students from throughout the region to the delights of learning outside the classroom. We also offer unique opportunities to explore Dunedin city and the Otago region through a variety of walking and bus tours. Guided tours of the Museum are available by arrangement.

The Museum houses extensive archives on the history of the peoples of Otago, and these are available to both professional researchers and the general public.

The Museum buildings are themselves worth a visit, both the original Edwardian galleries and the classic Art Deco building of Dunedin's former NZR Road Transport Building. The Museum foyer, which links the two, features the Museum Shop and a New Zealand Film Archive site. There is disabled access to all areas, with a wheelchair available on request.

We trust you'll enjoy visiting us, through this website or in person.