Southland Museum Tuatara Enclosure

With the Southland Museum and Art Gallery's building and exhibitions now unfortunately closed to the public, it is still a fascinating place to go and view one of New Zealand's most unique native reptiles.

The Tuatarium (as they call it) is proclaimed to be one of the world’s best enclosures. Being a much warmer environment than outdoor enclosures, especially in the winter months, you are more likely to see a live tuatara at this special enclosure. Tuatara are cold-blooded and more active in warmer habitats.

The Southland Museum cares for over 100 tuatara, all at different stages of development; from new born babies to teenagers, to the world famous Henry, who is over 110 years old. Incidentally, Henry holds the world record for living in captivity for over 46 years.

Tuatara can be viewed from the outside of the museum building through the windows on the north side of the pyramid.