A national touring exhibition in association with GNS Science and Shell that showcases and celebrates New Zealand fossils as indicators and predictors of things such as climate change, evolution, natural disasters and mineral deposits.
The Nelson Provincial Museum was an award recipient at this years Museums Aotearoa Conference held recently in Gisborne. The award was presented to the Museum for it's Unpicking the Past exhibition researched and curated by Paula Haines-Bellamy and exhibited during April to July 2008.
The award is the Selecon Award for Exhibition Excellence presented for an outstanding new exhibition that contributes to best practice in the museum sector in Aotearoa New Zealand, and demonstrates excellence, relevance and vision particularly in lighting design.
To view an archived version of our Unpicking the Past web page click here
Described by many scientists as "the father of New Zealand geology" Ferdinand von Hochstetter arrived in this country in 1858 as a member of an Austrian scientific expedition and spent most of his time in this country describing and mapping newly discovered mineral fields.
In 1859 The Nelson Provincial Government invited Hochstetter to investigate the region's mineral deposits and report on their potential for commercial use.
The Hochstetter exhibition traces the work of this remarkable young scientist during his visit to New Zealand. It includes reproductions of his watercolours and maps and has some of the original specimens he arranged for the Nelson Institute on display.
At our central city location, TA445, the Lower Gallery leads visitors through an exploration of Te Tau Ihu, top of the South Island from Tasman Bay to Golden Bay. This treasure-filled permanent exhibition focuses on the region's fascinating history and identity, offering opportunity for hours of discovery.
Cnr Trafalgar and Hardy Sts, Nelson
