#Otago Museum

[drhoz]

The Great ACT-NSW-NZ Trip, 2023-2024 - Cromwell

We stopped in Cromwell because @purrdence wanted to look at the museum exhibit on the Chinese goldminers that had once lived in the area. It was quite an interesting exhibit, as was the one about the construction of the dam that largely solved the problem that the area is the one of driest in New Zealand despite having its longest river. Admittedly the new water level flooded a significant part of town. And the discovery of a large faultline in the immeadiate vicinity of the dam site made a lot of people very unhappy. I also found out about the Cromwell Flightless Chafer Reserve, but see a following post about that.

Much of the rock in the area is schist, or heavily foliated schist, originally deposited as marine sediments 200myo, eroded 60myo, uplifted 2myo ago, brutalised by the Ice ages until 16kyo, and treated rather harshly by the Europeans stripping every possible mountain slope that might contain gold.

A few species, already seen elsewhere.

[theultimatenaturelover]

Kaiwhekea katiki, an aproximately 7 meter long plesiosaur from the Late Cretaceous. A single, nearly complete fossils found in Katiki Formation is now in the Otago Museum in Dunedin, New Zealand.

It's head shape is so weird istg. I thought it would be a fun idea to make it's tail similarly colored as it's head so it would make it hard for it's prey to know wether they're looking at the back or front lol.

[world-beauty]

Andromeda in Southern Skies

Credits: Ian Griffin, Otago Museum

[apod]

2023 December 23

A December Summer Night Image Credit & Copyright: Ian Griffin (Otago Museum)

Explanation: Colours of a serene evening sky are captured in this 8 minute exposure, made near this December's solstice from New Zealand, southern hemisphere, planet Earth. Looking south, star trails form the short concentric arcs around the rotating planet's south celestial pole positioned just off the top of the frame. At top and left of center are trails of the Southern Cross stars and a dark smudge from the Milky Way's Coalsack Nebula. Alpha and Beta Centauri make the brighter yellow and blue tinted trails, reflected below in the waters of Hoopers Inlet in the Pacific coast of the South Island's Otago Peninsula. On that short December summer night, aurora australis also gave luminous, green and reddish hues to the sky above the hills. An upper atmospheric glow distinct from the aurora excited by collisions with energetic particles, pale greenish bands of airglow caused by a cascade of chemical reactions excited by sunlight can be traced in diagonal bands near the top left.

∞ Source: apod.nasa.gov/apod/ap231223.html

[onichophora]

Jewelled Gecko (Naultinus gemmeus), endemic to the southern half of the South Island. This particular individual was kept in a display at the Otago Museum, this female, I'm guessing as she has the "jewels" that males don't usually have, came up to the glass when I wiggled my finger at her.

[trendingjournals]

World's Rarest Whale Washes Up On New Zealand Beach

The body of a spade-toothed whale — a species so rare it has never been seen alive — appears to have washed up on a New Zealand beach, scientists say.

The remains of the obscure, five-metre (16.4 foot) long, beaked creature were found near a river mouth in southern Otago province on July 4, government researchers said.

It was identified by marine-mammal experts from New Zealand’s Department of Conservation and the national museum, Te Papa, as a male spade-toothed whale.

A DNA investigation has been launched to confirm its classification, the scientists said.

“Spade-toothed whales are one of the most poorly known large mammalian species of modern times,” said the conservation department’s coastal Otago operations manager, Gabe Davies.

“Since the 1800s, only six samples have ever been documented worldwide, and all but one of these was from New Zealand,” Davies said in a statement Monday.

“From a scientific and conservation point of view, this is huge.”

The find was fresh enough to offer the first opportunity for a spade-toothed whale to be dissected, the conservation department said.

The species is “so rare next to nothing is known about them”, it said.

The body of the whale has been placed in cold storage and genetic samples have been sent to the University of Auckland as curators of the New Zealand Cetacean Tissue Archive.

It may take several weeks or months for the DNA to be processed and a final identification confirmed.

“The rarity of the whale means conversations around what to do next will take more time because it is a conversation of international importance,” the conservation department said.

The species was first described in 1874 from just a lower jaw and two teeth collected from the Chatham Islands off the east coast of New Zealand.

That sample, along with skeletal remains of two other specimens found in New Zealand and Chile, enabled scientists to confirm a new species.

Marine scientist Vanessa Pirotta said researchers would study the whale’s stomach contents, genetics, and how this sample compared to previous ones.

This could shine light on the whales’ behaviour, their population and why they are so rare, Pirotta told AFP, describing the discovery as “like hitting the jackpot”.

Because so few specimens have been found and there have been no live sightings, little is known about the spade-toothed whale and it is classified as “data deficient” under New Zealand’s Threat Classification System.

The first intact specimen was from a mother and calf stranding in Bay of Plenty in 2010, the New Zealand conservation department said.

A further stranding in 2017 in Gisborne added one more specimen to the collection.

[talonabraxas]

APOD: Andromeda in Southern Skies (2022 Oct 21) Image Credit & Copyright: Ian Griffin (Otago Museum) Explanation: Looking north from southern New Zealand, the Andromeda Galaxy never gets more than about five degrees above the horizon. As spring comes to the southern hemisphere, in late September Andromeda is highest in the sky around midnight though. In a single 30 second exposure this telephoto image tracked the stars to capture the closest large spiral galaxy from Mount John Observatory as it climbed just over the rugged peaks of the south island's Southern Alps. In the foreground, stars are reflected in the still waters of Lake Alexandrina. Also known as M31, the Andromeda Galaxy is one of the brightest objects in the Messier catalog, usually visible to the unaided eye as a small, faint, fuzzy patch. But this clear, dark sky and long exposure reveal the galaxy's greater extent in planet Earth's night, spanning nearly 6 full moons.

[gaylordthethird]

Did you know there is a rat king in otago museum? Now you do!

[loveydovey-leviathan]

Below is a list of events happening in New Zealand in support of Palestine. All events can be found on the official PSNA website (Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa).

North Island Opononi – Gathering for Palestine Sunday 28 April 1:30 pm Outside the Four Square, Opononi Kerikeri, Bay of Islands - Rally Rally on the First Saturday of the month from now on Next Rally Saturday May 4 Whangarei – Rally Saturday 27 April 11:00 am Whangārei Town Basin in front of Hundertwasser Building  Auckland – TVNZ Picket – TVNZ’s Jack Tame Platforming Genocide Friday 26 April 12:00 mid-day TVNZ - 100 Victoria Street West Auckland  Auckland – Banners around Tamaki Makaurau Saturday 27 April (Delayed from last week due to high winds) 10:00 am Gather at the Market Road Overbridge. Plans to go to (dependant on numbers):

Pedestrian motorway overbridge at Mauranui Ave – Dilworth Road

Omahu Road overbridge

Text Steve on 021 256 511 For further details Auckland – Rally Sunday 28 April 2:00 pm Te Komititanga – Britomart Square Tauranga – Rally Every second Sunday. Next Rally Saturday May 4 10:30 am Watch this space Tauranga – Flag waving Sunday 28 April 11:00 am Coronation Park, Mount Maunganui Hamilton - Rally Saturday 27 April 1:00 pm Flynn Park, Hamilton Rotorua – Flags for Todd McClay Thursday 25 April 4:00 pm National MP Todd McClays Office - 1301 Amohau St, Rotorua Napier - Rally Saturday 27 April 11:30 am Marine Parade Soundshell Roundabout Hastings - Rally Sunday 28 April 2:00 pm Hastings Town Clock – Hastings CBD Palmerston North - Rally Sunday 28 April 2:00 pm The Square, Palmerston North New Plymouth – Flags on the Bridge Friday 26 April 4:30 pm Paynters Ave Bridge, New Plymouth New Plymouth – Rally Saturday 27 April 1:00 pm The Landing, 1 Ariki Street, New Plymouth Whanganui - Rally Saturday 27 April 11:00 am Riverside Market, Whanganui Whanganui – (Kite) Flying Prayers for Palestine Sunday 28 April 1:00 – 2:00 pm Castlecliff Beach Carterton Every Tuesday 12:00 midday Memorial Square. Martinborough – Gathering for Palestine Every Wednesday 11:00 am The square at the top of Kitchener St, Martinborough Featherston Every Saturday 11:00 am The Squircle (opposite the op shop). Wellington No Rally this weekend South Island Nelson – Rally Check out the Te Tau Ihu Palestine Solidarity Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/TeTIPalestine/ Takaka – Information and Networking Gathering Saturday 27 April 10:30 am Village Green, Takaka Blenheim Saturday 27 April 11:00 am Blenheim Railway Station Christchurch – Rally Saturday 27 April 1:00 pm Bridge of Remembrance, Cashel Street Dunedin - Rally Saturday 27 April 2:00 pm Otago Museum Reserve to the Octagon, Dunedin Queenstown - Rally NOTE – Next Sunday May 5 1:00 pm Earnslaw Park, Queenstown Invercargill - Rally Friday 26 April 5:30 pm Wachner place Invercargill

.

There will also be a PSNA National Meeting 18/19 May 2024 in Auckland.

[the-bonclave]

What's amazing is this is its closest living relative:

(Maned Wolf, wikicommons)

And this somehow isn't:

(Short-eared dog, Renata Leite Pitman)

And this extinct thing (Falkland Wolf, Tūhura Otago Museum)

is the most related to Tall Wolf. None of which are wolves, btw. They're the next group over.

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/11/091102121449.htm

No, you can’t pet that dog. ✋ Introducing the bush dog (Speothos venaticus)! This rare canid is so elusive that it was once known only from fossils and thought to be long extinct. It inhabits parts of South America from Panama to northern Argentina, where it can be found in packs of up to 12 individuals. With partially webbed feet, this critter is a skilled swimmer and spends much of its time around water. It hunts for a variety of rodents including agoutis, pacas, and capybaras.

Photo: Tambako The Jaguar, CC BY-ND 2.0, flickr

[drhoz]

#1969 - Catonephele numilia - Blue-frosted Banner

photos by @purrdence

AKA blue-frosted Catone, Grecian shoemaker and stoplight Catone. I don’t have any info on the origin of the scientific name, let alone the “Grecian Shoemaker” common name.

Finding one of these in the wild in Aoteoroa would be rather odd, since it’s a Nymphalid from wet forests in Central and South America, and the climate on New Zealand’s South Island isn’t exactly conducive to the health of tropical butterflies. It’s from the butterfly house at the Dunedin Museum in Otago. 

The males are black with six orange dots on the upper surface of the wings, and blue spots along the rear edge of the hind wings - rather battered in the top photo. Females are black with a light yellow band across the centre of the forewings. Adults feed on rotten fruit, and the caterpillars feed on Alchornea species from the family Euphorbiaceae.

Males perch on vegetation and wait for receptive females to pass. After mating, females spend the warmest parts of the day cruising waterways and paths looking for host plants to lay their eggs, and raise enough generations each year that the adults can be found at any time. No doubt that’s one reason the butterfly enclosure chose them. 

[hayaam1230]

The top 6 cities to visit in New Zealand

Discovering New Zealand, country with remarkable scenery and lively customs, provides visitors with variety of varied experiences. Every city has its own unique beauty and attractions, which include lively urban centres to peaceful natural wonders. The best six cities in New Zealand are covered in this book, where you can experience the culture of the Maori people, take in beautiful coastal views, and partake in excellent eating and adventure activities. Cities offer the ideal beginning places for an amazing Kiwi tour, whether you're looking for adventure, culture, or relaxation.

Securing the required travel paperwork is just one of the numerous tasks that need to be carefully planned while travelling to New Zealand's amazing scenery and energetic towns. Regardless of whether you are applying New Zealand visa from Dubai or New Zealand visa from Abu Dhabi, getting a New Zealand visa is a simple process for UAE citizens. New Zealand Visa Application Centres are situated in these cities, or you can apply online. Essential documentation, including a current passport, evidence of financial stability, and trip plan data, must be submitted by applicants. When a visa is approved, it provides easy access to all of New Zealand's best holiday locations, including the lively capital of Auckland and the action-packed Queenstown, guaranteeing a simple and unforgettable trip.

Here are the top 6 cities to visit in New Zealand:

Auckland: Auckland, sometimes called the "City of Sails," is the biggest and most diverse city in New Zealand. It is famous for beautiful harbours, such as Manukau and Waitemata, as well as for being close to some of most gorgeous beaches and hiking routes. With extensive number of theatres, museums, and galleries, including Auckland Art Gallery and the New Zealand Maritime Museum, city is home to a growing arts and culture scene.

Wellington: Wellington, nation's capital, is well-known for its lively nightlife, rich history, and arts scene. Te Papa Tongarewa, New Zealand's national museum, provides an in-depth exploration of the country's cultural and natural assets. Museum is located in the city, nestled between rolling hills and a lovely harbour. Wellington, which is home to the Parliament buildings, including the recognisable Beehive, is also the political centre of the country.

Queenstown: Queenstown, dubbed the adventure capital of New Zealand, is a haven for thrill-seekers. With the incredible Southern Alps and Lake Wakatipu as a dramatic background, Queenstown is home to many heart-pounding winter sports and extreme sports including skydiving, bungee jumping, jet boating, and skiing. Queenstown is known for adventure, but it also provides luxury and relaxation, with world-class wines in the neighbouring Gibbston Valley, luxury resorts, and exquisite dining establishments.

Christchurch: Referred to as the "Garden City," Christchurch is famous for its exquisite gardens and parks as well as its creative reconstruction efforts in the wake of the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes. The city successfully combines a strong sense of modernity with its rich English tradition. The Christchurch Botanic Gardens, Hagley Park, and the gorgeous Avon River—where punting is a popular pastime—are also enjoyed by visitors.

Rotorua: The North Island's Rotorua is well-known for its geothermal activities and vibrant Maori culture. The city, especially in locations like TePuia and Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, provides unique geothermal attractions like bubbling mud pools, geysers, and hot springs. City's proximity to Lake Rotorua offers additional chances for fishing, boat tours, and water sports.

Dunedin: Famous for its strong Scottish lineage, Dunedin is a beautiful city with a variety of historical and architectural passageways. University of Otago, oldest university in New Zealand, is located there, giving the city a more active and youthful feel. The beautiful Dunedin Railway Station, the storied Larnach Castle, and the Dunedin Public Art Gallery are all open to visitors.

Conclusion:

Discovering top six cities in New Zealand reveals combination of beautiful scenery, interesting past, and lively culture. Every city offers different aspect of makes New Zealand such an attractive travel destination, thanks to unique mix of experiences and attractions. Every destination offers life-changing experiences, geothermal wonders of Rotorua to urban flare of Auckland and Wellington, calm beauty of Queenstown, historic attract of Christchurch, and seaside attraction of Dunedin. Discover New Zealand is hailed as traveller's paradise around globe as you explore these varied urban treasures.

[world-beauty]

SOFIA s Southern Lights

Credits: Ian Griffin, Otago Museum

[apod]

2023 September 23

Afternoon Analemma Image Credit & Copyright: Ian Griffin (Otago Museum)

Explanation: An analemma is that figure-8 curve you get when you mark the position of the Sun at the same time each day for one year. To make this one, a 4x5 pinhole camera was set up looking north in southern New Zealand skies. The shutter was briefly opened each clear day in the afternoon at 4pm local time exposing the same photosensitized glass plate for the year spanning September 23, 2022 to September 19, 2023. On two days, the winter and summer solstices, the shutter was opened again 15 minutes after the main exposure and remained open until sunset to create the sun trails at the bottom and top of the curve. The equinox dates correspond to positions in the middle of the curve, not the crossover point. Of course, the curve itself is inverted compared to an analemma traced from the northern hemisphere. And while fall begins today at the Autumnal Equinox for the northern hemisphere, it's the Spring Equinox in the south.

∞ Source: apod.nasa.gov/apod/ap230923.html

[crossbordernarratives]

World's Rarest Whale Washes Up On New Zealand Beach

The body of a spade-toothed whale -- a species so rare it has never been seen alive -- appears to have washed up on a New Zealand beach, scientists say.

The remains of the obscure, five-metre (16.4 foot) long, beaked creature were found near a river mouth in southern Otago province on July 4, government researchers said.

It was identified by marine-mammal experts from New Zealand's Department of Conservation and the national museum, Te Papa, as a male spade-toothed whale.

A DNA investigation has been launched to confirm its classification, the scientists said.

"Spade-toothed whales are one of the most poorly known large mammalian species of modern times," said the conservation department's coastal Otago operations manager, Gabe Davies.

"Since the 1800s, only six samples have ever been documented worldwide, and all but one of these was from New Zealand," Davies said in a statement Monday.

"From a scientific and conservation point of view, this is huge."

The find was fresh enough to offer the first opportunity for a spade-toothed whale to be dissected, the conservation department said.

The species is "so rare next to nothing is known about them", it said.

The body of the whale has been placed in cold storage and genetic samples have been sent to the University of Auckland as curators of the New Zealand Cetacean Tissue Archive.

It may take several weeks or months for the DNA to be processed and a final identification confirmed.

"The rarity of the whale means conversations around what to do next will take more time because it is a conversation of international importance," the conservation department said.

The species was first described in 1874 from just a lower jaw and two teeth collected from the Chatham Islands off the east coast of New Zealand.

That sample, along with skeletal remains of two other specimens found in New Zealand and Chile, enabled scientists to confirm a new species.

Marine scientist Vanessa Pirotta said researchers would study the whale's stomach contents, genetics, and how this sample compared to previous ones.

This could shine light on the whales' behaviour, their population and why they are so rare, Pirotta told AFP, describing the discovery as "like hitting the jackpot".

Because so few specimens have been found and there have been no live sightings, little is known about the spade-toothed whale and it is classified as "data deficient" under New Zealand's Threat Classification System.

The first intact specimen was from a mother and calf stranding in Bay of Plenty in 2010, the New Zealand conservation department said.

A further stranding in 2017 in Gisborne added one more specimen to the collection.

[nzetaonlinevisa]

Top 5 Places to visit in june new zealand

Christchurch, located on New Zealand’s South Island, is renowned for its English heritage and vibrant cultural scene. This picturesque city, known as the “Garden City,” boasts an array of attractions that cater to diverse interests. Among the top places to see in Christchurch are the stunning Botanic Gardens, which offer a peaceful retreat with a variety of plant species and beautifully landscaped grounds.

The Christchurch Art Gallery is a must-visit for art enthusiasts, showcasing an impressive collection of national and international works. For a glimpse into the city’s history, the Canterbury Museum provides fascinating exhibits on natural history and cultural heritage.

Hagley Park, the city’s largest urban open space, is perfect for leisurely strolls, picnics, and sports activities. The iconic Avon River, which meanders through the city, offers punting tours that provide a unique perspective of Christchurch’s scenic beauty.

Quake City, an interactive museum, educates visitors about the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes that significantly impacted the region. Additionally, the innovative and colorful Cardboard Cathedral stands as a symbol of the city’s resilience and creativity. https://www.nzetaonlinevisa.com/

Wellington, the capital city of New Zealand, is a vibrant cultural hub nestled between rolling hills and a picturesque harbor. Known for its dynamic arts scene, Wellington boasts a plethora of museums, theaters, and galleries that showcase both contemporary and traditional works. One of the must-visit places to see in Wellington is the iconic Te Papa Tongarewa, the national museum that offers interactive exhibits and rich Maori cultural displays. Another highlight is the Wellington Cable Car, which provides panoramic views of the city and leads to the beautiful Botanic Garden, a serene escape from the urban bustle. https://www.nzetaonlinevisa.com/

Dunedin, located on the southeast coast of New Zealand’s South Island, is a city rich in history and natural beauty. Known for its Scottish heritage, Dunedin boasts a unique blend of Victorian and Edwardian architecture. Among the top places to see in Dunedin is the iconic Larnach Castle, the only castle in New Zealand, offering stunning views and lush gardens. The Otago Peninsula is another must-visit, famous for its diverse wildlife, including albatrosses, sea lions, and rare yellow-eyed penguins.

Dunedin’s city center is home to the historic Dunedin Railway Station, often dubbed the most photographed building in the country, and the bustling Octagon, a central plaza surrounded by shops, cafes, and the magnificent St. Paul’s Cathedral. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Dunedin Public Art Gallery, which houses an impressive collection of national and international artworks. https://www.nzetaonlinevisa.com/

Wanaka, a picturesque town in New Zealand’s South Island, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant outdoor activities. Nestled at the southern end of Lake Wanaka and surrounded by majestic mountains, it offers an idyllic retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Among the must-visit places to see in Wanaka is the iconic Wanaka Tree, a solitary willow that stands in the lake, providing a perfect photo opportunity.

Visitors can explore the pristine beauty of Mount Aspiring National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, ideal for hiking, climbing, and spotting diverse wildlife. Roys Peak offers a challenging trek with rewarding panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. For those interested in more leisurely activities, Puzzling World, with its quirky illusions and maze, provides fun for all ages. https://www.nzetaonlinevisa.com/

Fox Glacier, located in Westland Tai Poutini National Park on New Zealand’s South Island, is a stunning natural wonder that draws visitors from around the world. Known for its breathtaking ice formations and dynamic landscape, Fox Glacier descends from the Southern Alps down into the temperate rainforest, creating a unique juxtaposition of ice and greenery.

One of the prime places to see in Fox Glacier is the glacier itself, which can be explored through guided tours offering a closer look at the crevasses and ice caves. Visitors can also experience scenic helicopter flights that provide a bird’s-eye view of the glacier and the surrounding mountains.

Lake Matheson is another must-visit spot near Fox Glacier. Famous for its mirror-like reflections of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman, the lake offers picturesque walking trails and stunning photography opportunities. Additionally, the Fox Glacier Valley Walk provides a relatively easy hike with dramatic views of the glacier’s terminal face.

For those seeking more adventure, the nearby Gillespies Beach offers rugged coastline and the chance to explore historic gold mining sites. With its diverse range of attractions, Fox Glacier is a captivating destination, making it one of the top places to see in New Zealand. https://www.nzetaonlinevisa.com/