Dino-Mania Erupts as World-Leading Palaeontologist Arrives in Dunedin

The wait is over Professor Julia A. Clarke, one of the world's foremost vertebrate palaeontologists and evolutionary biologists, has officially arrived in Dunedin, and excitement is at full roar.

Touching down this morning, Professor Clarke has begun a whirlwind day of science, connection, and community. Her visit is one of only two stops in Aotearoa New Zealand, with Dunedin and Auckland chosen as the exclusive hosts of this world-renowned scientist.

Today, she has been meeting with researchers at the University of Otago, connecting with local academics working across the fields of palaeontology and endangered bird conservation—areas closely linked to her own groundbreaking evolutionary research.

In a significant moment for local conservation efforts, Professor Clarke also met with key industry stakeholders involved in protecting some of the country's most threatened species, including the iconic Hoiho (yellow-eyed penguin). Representatives from The OPERA, Yellow-eyed Penguin Trust, Dunedin Wildlife Hospital, Department of Conservation (DOC), University of Otago, local councillors, and Members of Parliament came together for an intimate discussion with Professor Clarke. The meeting provided a powerful opportunity to bridge global scientific research with grassroots conservation, sparking conversations about collaboration, innovation, and the future of endangered species in Aotearoa.

This evening, Professor Clarke will take the stage at Tūhura Otago Museum for a sold-out public talk that has captured the imagination of Dunedin's dinosaur fans. Over 40 minutes, she will guide the audience through her team's latest discoveries, from the colours of dinosaur feathers to how these ancient creatures may have sounded, revealing how fossils and modern science are reshaping our understanding of the prehistoric past.

A 20-minute Q&A will follow, offering a rare chance for local enthusiasts of all ages to put their burning dino questions directly to a global leader in the field.

To top it all off, the evening wraps with a special screening of T. Rex, a visually stunning planetarium film narrated by Sam Neill, combining cutting-edge CGI and real science to bring the king of dinosaurs to life on the dome.

Charlie Buchan, Marketing Manager at Tūhura Otago Museum, said the atmosphere is electric. "Having Professor Clarke here in Dunedin, engaging directly with our scientific community and the public, is extraordinary. The talk sold out in a matter of days, it's clear we've got a passionate base of dinosaur lovers and future scientists here in Ōtepoti," said Buchan.

"To witness someone of this calibre working alongside our conservation heroes and sharing her expertise so generously is an honour. It's a moment that truly celebrates the intersection of science, curiosity, and community."

Professor Clarke's visit is made possible by the generous support of the US Embassy to New Zealand.