Kā Kohika
Explore the Collection
Kā Kohika
Haere mai, welcome to Tūhura Otago Museum’s new Collections Online
Collections Online features the digitised records and images of our rich taonga. Search to learn about what we hold in our diverse collections that span from entomology, ornithology, paleontology and vertebrate collections through to ethnology, antiquities, classics, fashion and taonga Māori. By making these collections available online, we invite everyone, from scholars to descendants of the items’ origins, to explore, learn, and contribute. Through this, we hope to foster new knowledge, spark collaboration, and add value to our collective heritage.
The development of Tūhura’s online collection is an ongoing process; updates, new images and records are regularly added. In some cases, records have yet to be confirmed by Museum staff, and there could be mistakes or omissions in the information provided. If you see any mistakes or omissions please let us know.
Rapua te kohika
Search the Collection
Rapu mā ia wāhaka
Search by Department
Kā Taoka Hirahira
Highlights of the Collection
New Acquisitions
From generous donations and thoughtful bequests to targeted funding and smart acquisitions, our collection keeps growing thanks to the people who believe in what we do. Every object, specimen, and story helps us bring science, nature, and culture to life right here in the heart of Ōtepoti.
Objects on Display
From long-time favourites to fresh new features, our displays showcase just a slice of the incredible collection we care for. Some objects stay put, others pop up for a limited time—there's always something to discover.
Brian Patrick Collection
Gifted to the museum in 2002, this remarkable collection was assembled by renowned entomologist Brian Patrick. A passionate researcher and field collector, Brian dedicated decades to studying New Zealand's insect life especially the moths and butterflies he knew so well. His work helped shape what we know today, and his collection continues to inspire scientists, students, and curious minds alike.
Oldman Collection
Originally assembled by English collector and art dealer William Oldman, this significant collection was purchased by the New Zealand Government in 1948. It was then carefully distributed across the country's major museums. Today, these taonga offer an important window into cultural exchange, craftsmanship, and the collecting practices of the past.