South Canterbury has a rich natural heritage. This includes diverse landscapes, a fascinating fossil record and a varied array of ecosystems.

Our natural history exhibition area has dozens of local specimens and a wealth of information about our region’s natural heritage, past and present.

We house collections of local fossils, insects, birds, marine life and other creatures. Also included are collections of exotic butterflies, birds eggs and shells gathered by local people.

South Canterbury Museum staff will endeavour to identify any unusual items brought in by local people.