Human settlement of the Riverton/Aparima area began several hundred years ago - we are known as one of the oldest towns in New Zealand. However, the region's geological origins go back more than 250 million years to when the supercontinent of Gondwanaland dominated Earth's southern hemisphere. The rocky coast of Western Southland is a great place to reach into deep time and appreciate New Zealand's hidden history, and the museum is the best thing to do to learn about this social history. While you are here, you can also enjoy our retail area where you can find maps and visitor information.

If you would like more specific historic information, find out about our research services here. If you would like help planning your visit to our town, click here for visitor information, including the Southern Scenic Route. For information on other museums in Southland click here. 

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