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The Museum of the Vanished World, located within the Waitaki Whitestone UNESCO Global Geopark, officially reopened on Thursday August 13 following a major redevelopment that strengthens its role as a gateway to many of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most spectacular fossil sites.
The reopening follows a significant $450,000 refurbishment and exhibition redesign, marking an important milestone for both the museum and the Waitaki Whitestone Geopark Charitable Trust, while celebrating the region’s internationally significant fossil heritage.
Developed in partnership with the founders, long standing volunteers, scientists, museum experts and the wider community, the redesigned exhibition celebrates scientific discovery, shared responsibility and place-based learning while bringing Waitaki’s ancient stories to life.
The redevelopment honours the contribution of renowned Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka | University of Otago paleontologist – the late Professor Emeritus R. Ewan Fordyce and his colleagues and students.
Now operated by the Waitaki Whitestone Geopark Trust, the Museum of the Vanished World in Duntroon tells the globally significant story of life in the ancient oceans that once covered much of the Waitaki area, from early whales, dolphins and giant penguins to microscopic diatoms that reveal insights into past environments and climate. It also serves as a starting point for exploring the wider Geopark’s landscapes, wildlife, culture and geological heritage of global significance.
“The Waitaki region is rich in internationally recognised geological landmarks and stories, reflected through the revitalised Museum of the Vanished World visitor experience.
The Museum of the Vanished World, is a repolished gem in Waitaki’s tourism offering, giving both domestic and international visitors another compelling reason to visit, stay longer, and explore the district’s extraordinary landscapes, culture, heritage and natural wonders,” says Hamish Saxton, Tourism Director – Tourism Waitaki.
The Geopark continues to be one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most important fossil discovery locations, with new finds regularly contributing to our understanding of ancient marine ecosystems and the evolution of life.
Liz Longworth, Chair of the New Zealand National Commission for UNESCO, said the reopening demonstrates the value of investing in places that bring heritage, science, and community together.
“UNESCO Global Geoparks play an important role in connecting people with the stories of their landscapes while promoting education, conservation, and sustainable development.
The Museum of the Vanished World is an outstanding example of how local communities can celebrate and share internationally significant heritage, and we congratulate the Geopark Trust on this important achievement.”
The reopening celebrations will include a Geopark Showcase featuring Waitaki businesses and organisations from across the tourism, food and wine, conservation, creative arts and education sectors.
Guests attending the official reopening include local and regional business and government leaders, scientists and community members who have played an instrumental role in the museum’s development and success, and a delegation from the New Zealand National Commission for UNESCO.
Waitaki Whitestone Geopark Trust Executive Director Lynley Browne said the redevelopment reinforces the museum’s role as a key place for learning and discovery within Australasia’s only UNESCO Global Geopark.
“The Museum of the Vanished World is a treasured community focal point and a unique national asset.
This redevelopment has strengthened the connection between the museum, other geopark sites, and the wider range of outstanding museum experiences available throughout the region. We’re excited to welcome visitors into a refreshed space that helps tell the extraordinary story of our Geopark.”
“The redevelopment has helped preserve and enhance the district’s geological, paleontological, and cultural collections, exhibits, and archives, ensuring the unique heritage of the Geopark and wider district remains protected in the area where they were discovered and accessible for future generations.”
The redevelopment was made possible through the generous financial support of the New Zealand Lottery Grants Board, Vanished World Inc (2000-2023), Otago Community Trust, Alexander McMillan Trust, the Stout Trust, the Waitaki District Council, alongside the significant contributions of scientists and local contractors, tradespeople and volunteers.
The Waitaki Whitestone UNESCO Global Geopark became New Zealand’s only UNESCO Global Geopark in 2023. The programme was established here by the New Zealand National Commission for UNESCO.
The museum houses the region’s internationally significant fossil discoveries, geology and natural history. More on the Geopark can be found here.
The reopening coincides with the UNESCO Global Geopark revalidation visit, providing a perfect opportunity to show the Geopark’s continued commitment to education, science, conservation and sustainable regional development.
