When the bones of gigantic extinct birds were found in Aotearoa New Zealand by European scientists in the 1840s they created a worldwide sensation. The existence of the monstrous Moa on these remote and isolated islands was described as “the zoological discovery of the century” and soon their remains were uncovered from one end of the country to the other. However, it was during the turbulent and exciting days of the Central Otago gold rushes that the most remarkable discoveries would be found, and play vital roles in uncovering the many mysteries of the Moa. These discoveries and modern science have revealed a remarkable and surprising history – this region was once home to the greatest numbers and diversity of Moa anywhere in New Zealand. 

 Guest Speaker : Quinn Berentson author of 'Moa: The life and death of New Zealand's legendary bird'