Moa - Know More

They're one of the most fascinating creatures in New Zealand's history, and this month the moa will be showcased in a new Taupo Museum exhibition.

Everyone from New Zealand's moa historian and author Quinn Berentson to BBC legend David Attenborough has had a hand in the development of this exhibition, which is being curated by the museum to help fundraise for the repair of its own moa.

Curator Kerence Stephen said the museum's moa bones were put together in the 1980s but the legs were assembled back to front, like the knees of a human rather than a bird. The plan was to get the bones rearticulated so they represented the true form of the moa. "We want to raise awareness around our unfortunately assembled moa and get it looking good," she said. "We are also hoping to fundraise for a cool new display for it so it can be viewed in the best possible way."

The exhibition would feature a handwritten letter from David Attenborough and footage of a BBC programme featuring Mr Attenborough talking about moa would be screened. There would also be plenty of activities for children, including crafts and palaeontology activities.

Ms Stephen said Mr Berentson was being flown up from Dunedin courtesy of the Friends of the Museum to give two talks on the moa, which he was doing free of charge. "The plight of our moa touched his heart," she said. "He'll be doing a wine and cheese evening and a family talk so anyone who is interested can come along." The wine and cheese evening would be held on April 11, and the family talk would be on April 12.

The museum is also seeking the return of some moa bones found in 1975 at Reporoa. The bones were sent to Te Papa but have never been returned. "We hope through all of the research we've done and the collection of moa artefacts and memorabilia that we will be able to get these bones returned to us so they can be put on display close to where they were found," Ms Stephen said.

The official opening at 10.30am on Saturday March 15 will include a magician and activities for kids. The exhibition runs until May 4.

Taupo Museum is open seven days from 10am to 4.30pm. Entry is free to children and Taupo District residents with proof of address. A collection box will be set up at the museum to help fundraise for the project.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Lisa Nairne - Communications Manager 07 376 0762 027 839 8410

Vicki Waterhouse - Communications Advisor 07 376 0718 027 484 2549

Taupō District Council