A colossal coup is coming to Motueka, its tentacles stretching all the way into the town’s museum.
Motueka District Museum is hosting Te Papa’s touring exhibition Colossal Squid: Freaky Features! Te Ngū Tipua: Ngā Wāhanga Weriweri! bringing one of the ocean’s most mysterious creatures to the heart of the town.
Only eight of these deep-sea giants have ever been scientifically recorded worldwide, with most specimen parts recovered from the whales, sharks and scavenging birds. The touring exhibition features rare components of the creature, including tentacles and an eye lens.
Educational models are also on display, including a beak and tentacle hook from the world’s largest invertebrate, alongside two immersive documentary experiences.
Motueka’s exhibitions manager Kenny Willis says he would love “everyone in Motueka” to come by the free event.
“Te Papa doesn’t usually come this way,” he says.
Six schools and more than 550 students have already booked in to attend what Kenny calls a “great opportunity for the kids of the area”.
He reckons the museum has found the perfect partner in Tasman Bay Guardians to deliver the educational aspect of the exhibit. The two organisations have collaborated to create resources that highlight the local relevance and importance of marine education.
“This is a true collaboration of science and art,” Kenny explains.
The Cawthron Institute has also contributed, loaning a collection of marine-based specimens to complement the exhibition.
“Cool things in jars – kids are going to love those,” Kenny says.
To round out the display, Kenny delved into the museum’s own collection, fishing out items such as a pearly nautilus shell and a whale vertebra.
“My hope is that young students and all visitors are inspired and learn more about our ocean ecology,” he says.
Colossal Squid: Freaky Features! Te Ngū Tipua: Ngā Wāhanga Weriweri! runs from Wednesday, 29 April to Sunday, 19 July at Motueka District Museum.
