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

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.

The Dunedin Museum of Natural Mystery is a small private museum and gallery based in the home of Dunedin mural artist and sculptor, Bruce Mahalski, and located at 61 Royal Terrace in Dunedin, New Zealand. Spread over three rooms of an old central city villa the museum contains a collection of skulls, bones, biological curiosities, ethnological art and unusual cultural artifacts which the artist has collected over a lifetime. There is also a gallery featuring his own unique bone art and paintings for sale.

Deer are fascinating and majestic animals that have been part of New Zealand`s history since the 1850`s, and our farming scene since the 1970`s. Learn about the story of deer in New Zealand whilst looking at the finest collection of deer antlers in New Zealand, including some rare species and record holders. The World of Deer Museum is a multi faceted centre with lots to see and learn as we celebrate the wonderful and very important animal that is the Deer. The basis of the museum is the collection of wonderful antlers grown by stud animals at the famous " Stanfield Red Deer Stud" that includes previous world record antler for number of points (60), SCI and CIC scores and weight. Our point of difference is our worldwide theme, plus the educational focus - the New Zealand story from liberation of deer from around the world to the evolution of the deer farming industry, to understanding the products from deer and the benefits of natural remedies.

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.

150+ immaculate cars from more than 100 years of motoring Nelson Classic Car Museum is one of the finest private collections in New Zealand. From the little 1908 Renault AX, to classics of the 1950s including Vauxhalls, Triumphs and Cadillacs, through to the exquisite mastery of Jaguar and Ferrari, the Museum is the place to marvel and admire an incredible collection of iconic cars. The Museum also includes a Cafe renowned for its tasty healthy treats and the Museum store is full of NZ art and jewellery designs. Open every day 10am - 4pm (except Christmas Day). Due to a company restructure during the Covid19 lock down The World of Wearable Art exhibition is no longer on display at this Museum. Please use the website worldofwearableart.com for further information and contact.