Whanganui has one of the world’s most important moa bone collections.

Thousands of bones were recovered from a small swamp near the Mākirikiri Stream near Ūpokongaro between 1930 and1960 by Museum staff. The Museum now stores these precious bones with many others that have been accumulated over time.

Because this collection has remained intact, it is of immense scientific value. It tells us a story, through time, of the different moa species living in this area. A large proportion of the collection is displayed for the community to enjoy and learn from.