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One of New Zealand's finest social history museums, Otago Settlers Museum, established in 1898, stands to the south of Dunedin's Railway Station and forms an integral part of the historic Queens Gardens precinct.

Here you can discover what makes Otago unique. People have come from all corners of the earth to settle in Dunedin and the wider area of Otago. From Southern Maori to Scottish pioneers and hard- working Chinese gold miners, this is a place of staunch individuals and vibrant communities. Come and experience Otago's history for yourself.

The museum was founded to mark the 50th anniversary of the planned Scottish settlement of Dunedin. A purpose-built gallery was opened in 1908 and is still part of today's museum, carefully retained as an Edwardian-style showcase for the display of early settler portraits, furniture and memorabilia.

The museum building is itself well worth a visit. Recent refurbishment has linked the original Edwardian galleries with the classic Art Deco buildings of Dunedin's former NZR Road Transport building. Together these distinctive and historically important buildings enhance the museum's exhibitions which focus on the twentieth century as well as the colonial era.

Services

Archives

For detailed investigation of family and local history, the museum's research department is the perfect place.

Here you have access to the extensive collection which includes manuscripts, photographs, newspapers, directories, cemetery records, church registers, and diaries; the museum's research librarian is on hand to assist and advise.

A fee is charged for admission or you may prefer the museum to undertake research on your behalf - written quotations are provided before work is commenced.

Temporary Closure

Please note: The Otago Settlers Museum Archives and Research Reading Room will close at 1PM on Thursday, 24 December 2009, allowing staff to pack and relocate the Archives collection to temporary storage as part of the Museum Redevelopment. At this time we will take the opportunity to catalogue and digitise the collection and enter this information on our collection database.

During this period we will be offering new Archives services in another area of the Museum. We will have some of our more popular genealogical sources, including our collection of passenger lists, available on a computer for Museum visitors to access at no charge. Our photo portrait collection will also be available for viewing as digital images and visitors will have the opportunity to purchase digital copies of any of these portraits.

The Otago Settlers Museum regrets any inconvenience caused by this temporary change in our regular services. However, when Archives and Research reopens in 2012, we will be able to offer researchers improved facilities and greater access to our unique archival collections.

Museum Shop

The museum shop stocks a range of local and family history books, a selection for railway enthusiasts, interesting scenic books, cards and postcards.