Tuatara have long been associated with the Southland Museum and Art Gallery. They are an important part of our story.

Following community feedback, it was agreed a new tuatara enclosure – separate to the museum – should be built in Queens Park and a new location in the animal reserve has been chosen.

Christchurch-based architects Studio4 have been chosen to design the build. Studio4 has extensive experience in designing specialist animal enclosures, including the Great Ape Centre at Orana Park.

Council does not own the tuatara. It has engaged with iwi – Ngāti Koata, Te Atiawa, and Ngāi Tahu – and other stakeholders such as the Department of Conservation to ensure a “best-for-species” focus.

While Project 1225 is under way, the tuatara have been moved from the existing museum to a safe, secure location until their brand-new home is ready to go.

Rest assured: the tuatara are very precious to us, and they will still receive the same love and care in their new home.

The tuatara enclosure is scheduled for completion in mid-2024.