What to do and see in South Island, New Zealand: The Best Museums

Toitū Otago Settlers Museum is a museum of social history dedicated to telling the story of the people of Dunedin and the surrounding area, whose character, culture, technology, art, fashion and transport shaped New Zealand’s first great city.Its fourteen themed galleries feature interactive displays and powerful narratives tracing the human history of the area, from the earliest settlers to the most recent arrivals.Captivating exhibitions are complemented by an on site shop and café. A well-equipped research centre and archive is available for those interested in genealogy and other aspects of local history.

The Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre was established to provide a world-class destination for the appreciation of historic aircraft. Some of New Zealand's most respected cinematic and special effects craftsmen have created a dramatic aviation theatre in which original and full-scale replica WW1 and WW2 aircraft, both static and flyable, are presented in all their glory. The museum is home to two exhibitions, "Knights of the Sky" and "Dangerous Skies". The former is on long-term loan from film director Sir Peter Jackson and comprises one of the world's largest collections of World War One aircraft and rare memorabilia. Thanks to Sir Peter's generosity the aircraft have been brought to life in a series of dioramas created by Wingnut Films and enhanced with lifelike mannequins by Weta Workshop. "Dangerous Skies" utilised local talent and features stories from World War Two and takes visitors on a geographical as well as an historical journey.

Geraldine Observatory is one of New Zealands best private observatories. Operated by Peter and Wyn Aldous, the observatory has a 14 inch, six inch refractor, four inch triplit refractor, all mounted on a Paramont ME mount in a large roll on roll off observatory, a 11 inch HD Edge telescope in a domed observatory as well as others. Peters main interest is super nova hunting (exploding stars)and sharing the joys of the night sky with members of the public. Peter has over 40 years experience as a amateur astronomer.Donations go to promoting outreach astronomy in South Canterbury.

One man’s passion started it all. Experience a family legacy that has become the largest private automotive museum of its type in the world. Stunningly crafted within a world-class facility, Bill Richardson Transport World has something for everyone. Hugely popular, you will find more than 300 vehicles including retro Kombis, Henry Ford Letter Cars, Model Ts, stunning 1930s V8s and over 200 vintage petrol pumps. Outside of our extraordinary vehicle range we house a growing wearable arts collection, movie theatre, children’s play zones and themed bathrooms fast becoming as famous as our vehicles. Allow plenty of time - there is a lot to see.

Regularly described as ‘stunning’ and ‘mind-blowing’ in scale, Classic Motorcycle Mecca is the Southern Hemisphere’s leading motorcycle museum. Offering New Zealand’s most diverse collection, guests will find displays of classic British, European and American bikes as well as Japanese, Motocross and Speedway. A tribute to legend Burt Munro and an internationally significant hero bike display of Britten and Brough Superior is also on offer. Offering guests an intimate, up-close experience of the bikes and packed with quirky details, quality exhibits and interactive displays, Classic Motorcycle Mecca is a truly mind-blowing experience.

Learn about our history by taking part in it. Take a tour of the visual tale of our town from the rough-sawn Whitestone beginnings to the polished and finely worked grandeur of our facades that still exist today. Partake of Victorian pastimes or boldly go beyond the curtains to encounter our colourful past. Leisurely repose oneself in the sumptuous surrounds of our parlour.

A leading Nelson working art studio and gallery, open every day except Mondays. Leading edge, controversial, art with a message. Contemporary themes with award-winning artistic excellence.

Free admission* | Discover New Zealand’s military aviation story at the place where it all began. Engage with stories of the men and women who have helped shape New Zealand’s military aviation journey, and reflect on their service and sacrifice through years of war and peace. Explore the diverse collection at your own pace through immersive exhibitions, or join a free, guided ‘Behind the Scenes’ tour. View the historic aircraft on display, embark on a Museum Hunt with the kids, or test your flying skills in the ‘Mosquito Mission’ flight simulator! Price: FREE Admission - *activity charges may apply. Opening Hours: Daily (except Christmas Day), 10.00am - 5.00pm.

Free entry (donations appreciated) where you can experience New Zealand's rich cultural and natural history. See rare Maori artefacts and more than 1,000 paua shells adorning the walls of the famous Paua Shell House. Walk down the Christchurch Street and be transported back in time with the sights and sounds of the city's pioneering days. Discover one of the world's most significant collections from the heroic age of Antarctic exploration and discovery. Regular temporary exhibitions.