Tūhura Tropical Forest

A lush, living gallery filled with hundreds of tropical butterflies

Tūhura’s Tropical Forest is the only three-tier live butterfly experience in Australasia. 
At around 28 degrees and 75% humidity year-round, it’s the hottest spot in Dunedin! 

We bring butterflies from South America and Southeast Asia; still in their pupae when they arrive, they hatch at the Museum and we release them into the Forest. From the blue morpho, one of the world’s largest butterflies that swoops in bright blue flashes, to the delicate julia butterfly that floats through the air, the Forest is alive with rainforest life.

The butterflies share the space with parakeets, terrapins, finches and carp that swim in the pond. You will also find enclosures with tarantulas, giant African millipedes, and other creatures – it’s a world away, but right here in Otago.

With a five-metre waterfall, a sky-bridge, and lush tropical plants, this is one of Dunedin’s favourite attractions. 

Buy your Tūhura Science Centre tickets at the Otago Museum Shop.

Otago Museum supports the Tiaki Promise