May 6 – June 9, 2025 | Central Stories Museum and Art Gallery
Dive into the mysterious depths of the Southern Ocean with this captivating touring exhibition from Te Papa, New Zealand’s national museum.
Step into our specially designed darkened space that recreates the eerie twilight zone of the deep sea, where one of the ocean’s most elusive and fascinating creatures makes its home—the colossal squid.
First scientifically documented only in 1925 from remains found in a sperm whale’s stomach, the colossal squid has remained one of the ocean’s greatest mysteries. With only four complete specimens ever recovered, this rare creature continues to intrigue scientists and the public alike.
The exhibition features an interactive
scientific table displaying extraordinary specimens including:
- An actual lens from a colossal squid’s eye
- A section of tentacle from these massive creatures
- A complete tiny squid—the miniature version of its colossal relative
- Touchable rotating models of a squid’s tentacle hook and the colossal squid’s formidable beak
Immerse yourself in the deep-sea environment through captivating documentaries that reveal life in the depths of the Southern Ocean and discover the remarkable journey of the most complete colossal squid specimen ever found and how it came to Te Papa.
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to explore one of the most enigmatic creatures of the deep!
Admission: Free
This exhibition is proudly sponsored by Contact Energy and developed & toured by Te Papa Museum.
