Discover the fascinating world of fossils and geology at The Vanished World Centre in Duntroon.

Welcome to the Vanished World Fossil & Discovery Centre! We invite you to visit us in Duntroon (Waitaki Valley, New Zealand) and learn about our local surrounding – the limestone, fossils, volcanic sequences and other fascinating landforms. Meet Waipatia maerewhenua, a dolphin with shark-like teeth, and the ancient giant penguin Kairuku, which stood 1.3m tall. 

The Centre houses an inspiring collection of fossils detailing the geology of the District. The display has been put together under the supervision and assistance of Professor Ewan Fordyce of the Geology Department of the University of Otago with the aim of educating visitors (children and adults) about the unique geology of the District. 

It contains many significant and unique fossils found in the area and is a mix of original fossils and casts of fossils held at the University of Otago Geology Museum or on loan to Otago Museum. These are accompanied by interpretation panels and there are supporting videos showing the actual extraction of fossils from their surroundings.

The community-inspired Vanished World Society was formed in the early 2000s to help raise public awareness about the geology of the Waitaki district. The Vanished World Society is active in promoting the science, conservation and appropriate use of fossils, outcrops, and landforms, through a process of education, science -communication and “hands on experience”. 

We are proud to be in the heart of the Waitaki Whitestone aspiring Global Geopark. 

Open 7 days a week. Adult $10, Children under 18yrs FREE.