Otago Settlers Museum

Otago

One of New Zealand’s finest social history museums, the Otago Settlers Museum, stands to the south of Dunedin’s Railway Station and forms and integral part of the historic Queens Gardens precinct. The museum’s permanent and temporary exhibitions feature the rich cultural diversity of Otago’s people. The visitor can explore themes of cultural interaction, technological innovation and developments in everyday life. Here you can discover what makes Otago unique. People have come from all corners of the earth to settle in Dunedin and the wider area of Otago. From Southern Maori to Scottish pioneers and hard-working Chinese gold miners, this is a place of staunch individuals and vibrant communities. Come and experience Otago's history for yourself. The museum was founded to mark the 50th anniversary of the planned Scottish settlement of Dunedin. A purpose-built gallery was opened in 1908 and is still part of today's museum, carefully retained as an Edwardian-style showcase for the display of early settler portraits, furniture and memorabilia.