The remote islands south of Aotearoa were the scene of a number of devastating shipwrecks. Although lives were lost at sea, there were some survivors, marooned as castaways.
Explore collections online
More than 165,000 items are currently available online. Bookmark us – we’re adding new items regularly!
Coracle made by survivors of the 'Dundonald' on display in the former Antarctic Gallery
Senior Curator Paul Scofield, left, with sculptor Paul Deans who gifted turtle fossils to the Museum
Donating to the Collection
We can't currently accept in-person donations at the Museum. Instead, please email our curators on info@canterburymuseum.com with a picture of the item/s and any related information.
While we welcome offers of gifts, we can't accept everything. All gift offers are carefully considered and decisions guided by our collecting themes and policies.
If you have an item that you are thinking of gifting to the Museum, please contact info@canterburymuseum.com or 03 366 5000. See below for Frequently Asked Questions.
If you wish to make a monetary donation to the Museum, please visit our Donate page.
