Southland Museum & Art Gallery: Explore the Region’s History and Culture

At the Southland Museum & Art Gallery, you can explore the region's fascinating history and culture. You'll find interactive galleries, including a Maori Gallery that showcases traditional crafts and a Natural History Gallery filled with rare species. Engaging exhibitions highlight local and international artists, while hands-on educational programs immerse you in Maori culture and science workshops. Although the museum is currently closed for redevelopment, a new facility, Te Unua Museum of Southland, is set to open in late 2026. Discover what awaits by learning more about its exciting collections and imminent transformation.

Major Highlights

  • The Southland Museum & Art Gallery, established in 1869, showcases the rich history and culture of the Southland region.
  • Notable galleries include the Māori Gallery and Natural History Gallery, highlighting local Māori culture and rare species.
  • The museum hosts diverse educational programs focusing on Māori traditions and hands-on science workshops for students.
  • It features significant collections, including Māori artefacts, extinct species, and a fossil forest from Curio Bay.
  • The visitor experience is enhanced with interactive exhibits, a gift shop, and a café within the scenic Queen's Park area.

Location and Historical Background

Nestled on Gala Street in Invercargill, New Zealand, the Southland Museum & Art Gallery invites you to explore its rich history and cultural significance. This esteemed institution has roots that date back to 1869 when Andrew McKenzie first exhibited a small collection in his Invercargill "Scotch Pie House and Museum."

By 1876, the Invercargill Athenaeum acquired the collection, which eventually found its home at the Southland Technical College in 1912. Officially opening its doors on September 4, 1912, the museum has since evolved under the Southland Museum Board, formed in 1939.

Over the decades, the museum has expanded its offerings and facilities, adding an art gallery in 1960 and a Southland Astronomical Society Observatory in 1972. These developments reflect its commitment to community engagement and the historical significance of Southland's heritage.

Despite its closure in 2018 due to structural concerns, plans for a redevelopment are underway, with a new museum set to open in late 2026. As you delve into its past, you'll appreciate the museum's enduring impact on the local community and its mission to celebrate Southland's unique cultural narrative.

Architectural Highlights

The Southland Museum and Art Gallery stands out with its striking pyramid-shaped building, a landmark in Invercargill. Completed in 1990, this architectural marvel boasts the largest pyramid design in the Southern Hemisphere, covering an impressive 5,000 m². Measuring 45 by 52 meters wide and rising 27 meters high, the structure envelops the original 1942 museum, seamlessly blending history and modernity.

The architectural significance of the pyramid lies not just in its unique form but in its role in the total redevelopment of the museum. This bold design aimed to create a dynamic space for visitors while showcasing the region's rich cultural heritage.

However, despite its iconic status, the building faced challenges. It closed indefinitely in 2018 due to critical structural weaknesses and earthquake risks, underscoring the importance of adhering to National Building Standards.

Looking ahead, plans are underway to demolish the existing structure and create a new museum, Te Unua Museum of Southland, expected to open in late 2026. While the pyramid has become a cherished symbol, the future promises an exciting transformation for the museum and its architectural landscape.

Galleries and Special Exhibitions

Southland Museum & Art Gallery boasts a diverse array of galleries and special exhibitions that capture the region's rich cultural and natural heritage. You'll find everything from Māori history to contemporary art, all designed to engage and inspire.

Here's what you can look forward to:

  • Māori Gallery: Experience interactive exhibits showcasing pre-contact life in Murihiku/Southland.
  • Natural History Gallery: Discover rare species and subfossil bones in dynamic displays.
  • Art Galleries: Enjoy contemporary and historical art with a focus on local talent.
  • Community Gallery: Engage with local artists through vibrant, rotating exhibitions.
  • Special Exhibitions: Explore diverse themes from national and international artists.

These galleries not only highlight the region's heritage but also encourage community engagement through various events and programs.

Temporary exhibitions, like the William Hodges Fellowship, provide a platform for artists to explore themes of identity and culture.

Each visit offers a chance to connect with the art and history of Southland, making it a must-see destination for both locals and visitors alike.

Notable Collections and Artefacts

At the Southland Museum & Art Gallery, you'll find remarkable Māori cultural artefacts that highlight the region's rich heritage.

The displays of extinct species, like the kākāpō and moa, offer a glimpse into New Zealand's unique natural history.

Plus, the historical artworks collection showcases the talent and stories of local artists, making it a must-see for anyone interested in Southland's past.

Māori Cultural Artefacts

Within the Māori Gallery at the Southland Museum & Art Gallery, you'll encounter an impressive array of cultural artefacts that reveal the rich history and traditions of the Māori people.

These artefacts showcase the incredible traditional craftsmanship and powerful Māori storytelling that has been passed down through generations.

Here are some highlights you'll find in the gallery:

  • Manaia carvings: Intricately designed to represent spiritual guardians.
  • Pounamu jewellery: Reflecting the significance of jade in Māori culture.
  • Historic waka exhibits: Showcasing the conservation of traditional canoes.
  • Musical instruments: Used in various cultural ceremonies and storytelling.
  • Everyday tools: Like bone and stone fishing lures, illustrating pre-contact life.

As you explore, you'll gain insights into the daily lives of early Māori, their art, and the significance of each artefact.

The gallery also emphasizes educational programs like Kaupapa Māori, which delve deeper into Māori culture, ensuring the knowledge and appreciation of these treasures continue to thrive.

You'll leave with a greater understanding of the cultural richness that defines the Southland region.

Extinct Species Displays

Located in the Natural History Gallery, the Extinct Species Displays offer a fascinating glimpse into the unique wildlife of New Zealand, showcasing both rare and extinct species. Here, you can explore exhibits featuring subfossil bones of remarkable birds, including the giant moa, alongside the skeletons of dolphins and other marine life.

You'll also encounter rare species like the kākāpō and kiwi, emphasizing the importance of conservation efforts aimed at protecting these animals. The displays highlight the history of seal and penguin hunting, shedding light on human impact on wildlife.

As you walk through the gallery, you'll discover how these extinct species shaped the ecosystem and the ongoing conservation initiatives that aim to prevent further losses.

Additionally, the museum houses a stunning fossil forest from Curio Bay, allowing you to connect with the ancient past. By understanding the stories of these extinct species, you'll appreciate the critical role conservation plays in sustaining New Zealand's rich biodiversity.

The Extinct Species Displays serve as a poignant reminder of what's been lost and what still needs protecting for future generations.

Historical Artworks Collection

The Historical Artworks Collection at the Southland Museum & Art Gallery showcases an impressive array of New Zealand's artistic heritage, highlighting both historical and contemporary works.

This collection beautifully illustrates the cultural intersections and artistic influences that define the region. You'll find pieces that reflect the rich Māori culture alongside those from early European settlers.

Here are some notable highlights you won't want to miss:

  • William Hodges' "A Maori before a waterfall in Dusky Bay": A significant early European perspective on Māori life.
  • Māori Gallery: Features everyday life artifacts, including intricate carvings and musical instruments.
  • Ralph Hotere's collection: Engaging pieces inspired by New Zealand's landscapes and poetry.
  • Victoriana Gallery: Offers a glimpse into life during Queen Victoria's reign with artifacts from local homes.
  • Southern Seas Exhibits: Highlights whaling history with unique items like scrimshaw and a giant whale skull.

As you explore the collection, you'll gain a deeper understanding of how New Zealand's diverse cultures have influenced and shaped its artistic expressions over time.

Educational Programs Offered

At Southland Museum & Art Gallery, you can engage in enriching educational programs that highlight Māori culture and hands-on science workshops.

You'll explore traditional Māori practices while creating your own art, and you can also investigate ecosystems through interactive activities.

These programs not only enhance your understanding but also make learning enjoyable and memorable.

Māori Cultural Programs

Understanding the richness of Māori culture is a transformative experience offered through the Southland Museum & Art Gallery's educational programs.

You'll engage in various activities that not only highlight Māori cultural storytelling but also allow you to explore traditional Māori crafts. These programs are designed to align with the New Zealand curriculum, making learning both meaningful and enjoyable.

Here are some key components of the Māori cultural programs:

  • Discover the significance of taonga (cultural treasures) from the Southland region.
  • Participate in art-making conventions like koru art and mixed media painting.
  • Learn about early Māori life through hands-on experiences with artefacts and musical instruments.
  • Engage in Māori dance and performance, including haka and waiata.
  • Develop critical thinking by interpreting symbols and images relevant to Māori culture.

Hands-On Science Workshops

Hands-on science workshops frequently engage students in interactive learning experiences at the Southland Museum & Art Gallery. These workshops cover a variety of topics, including "Planet Earth and Beyond" and specialized sessions like "Tuatara Talk 'n' Touch." Each program can be tailored to different year levels and specific curriculum areas, ensuring a targeted approach to scientific exploration.

For instance, the "Scientific Investigation Skills – Estuary Study" prepares students for an engaging field trip to the Invercargill Estuary. Here, they'll hypothesize, research, and develop questions while using scientific methods to gather evidence and present their findings. The duration of this workshop is approximately 2.5 hours.

If you're interested in light, the "Light Workshop" allows students to explore the observatory telescope and conduct exciting experiments involving light reflection, bending, and color wheels. This session lasts 1.5 hours and connects with the Physical World science curriculum.

With options for outdoor activities and a general museum tour available, you'll find that these hands-on science workshops provide enriching experiences that foster curiosity and a deeper understanding of the world around you.

Closure and Redevelopment Plans

The Southland Museum and Art Gallery's indefinite closure since April 2018 has raised significant concerns about the building's safety, particularly due to its structural weaknesses that fell below 34% of the required earthquake standards.

The closure impact has been profound, with staff reduced from 41 to just 10, and many collection items relocated to storage for safety.

To counteract this, the Invercargill City Council has fast-tracked redevelopment plans, aiming to complete the new facility by December 2025.

Here's what to expect:

  • A new location at Queens Park, enhancing public access.
  • A dedicated storage facility at Tisbury to protect collections.
  • The total project cost has risen to $87 million.
  • Early civil works are already underway, focusing on storytelling elements.
  • The anticipated opening is set for late 2026.

While the temporary exhibition space, Te Waka Tuia Art + Museum, has provided some relief during this redevelopment timeline, the community looks forward to a revitalized cultural hub that preserves Southland's heritage.

Stay tuned as this exciting transformation unfolds!

Visiting the Museum

If you're planning a visit to the Southland Museum & Art Gallery, you'll find it conveniently located at 108 Gala St, right in the heart of Invercargill. The museum is nestled within the beautiful Queen's Park area, making it easy to access with plenty of parking available.

Once inside, you'll discover a wealth of exhibitions showcasing historic collections of international, national, and regional significance. Make sure to check out the Māori Gallery and the fascinating natural history gallery featuring rare species like the kākāpō and kiwi.

The Tuatarium Gallery also offers an engaging look at the tuatara breeding program.

The museum provides a variety of interactive experiences, perfect for all ages, with educational programs covering topics from migration to Māori culture.

Don't forget to explore the visitor amenities, including the Momento Gift Shop for unique souvenirs and the Pyramid on Gala Café for a coffee break or lunch.

After immersing yourself in the exhibits, take a moment to admire the stunning bronze tuatara sculpture outside. Your visit to the Southland Museum & Art Gallery promises to be both enriching and enjoyable!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Admission Fees to Enter the Museum?

Since the museum's closed, there aren't any admission fees. Once it reopens, you can expect ticket discounts and exhibit highlights that'll enrich your experience, aligning with other local museums' affordable pricing.

Can I Host Private Events at the Museum?

Imagine hosting your private event in a captivating space! You can certainly book the museum for gatherings, with tailored event packages and excellent catering options available to make your occasion unforgettable and uniquely yours.

Is There Parking Available Near the Museum?

You'll find parking options near the museum, primarily on-street parking. The area's accessibility features make it easy for everyone to enjoy the surroundings, ensuring a convenient visit to explore local history and culture.

Are Pets Allowed Inside the Museum?

Think of the museum as a delicate ecosystem where pets can't roam freely. Generally, pet policies allow only service animals inside, ensuring a tranquil space for all while protecting the unique exhibits, like the tuatara.

What Are the Museum's Opening Hours?

The museum's current hours are Monday to Friday, 10am to 5pm, and weekends, 11am to 2:30pm. Don't miss the exhibit highlights, and remember these visitor tips for an enjoyable experience during your visit!

Conclusion

As you wrap up your visit to the Southland Museum & Art Gallery, remember that every corner holds a piece of history waiting to be discovered. This treasure trove of culture not only showcases the past but also inspires future generations. So, dive into the stories etched in time and let them ignite your curiosity. With new redevelopment plans on the horizon, there's never been a better moment to witness the vibrant tapestry of Southland's heritage unfold before your eyes.