Clever CrustaceansMawhiti Tino Rawe

Combining the expertise of scientists from NIWA and Te Papa, our latest touring exhibition invites the public to meet Aotearoa New Zealand’s most famous crustaceans!

Crabs, lobsters, shrimp – they are Aotearoa New Zealand’s most famous crustaceans. Now meet the wider gang, from barnacles with superglue to slaters in the backyard. Explore the unique features of five marine crustaceans and take a dive into their world.

Adapted for survival in water and on dry land, the intricacies of these curious creatures are revealed by a digital microscope. Digital labels and five physical interactives extend the experience for visitors young and old.

Touring schedule

Whirinaki Whare Taonga, Upper Hutt	7 Dec 2024 – 16 Feb 2025
Ashburton Art Gallery and Museum, Ashburton	28 Sep – 24 Nov 2024
South Canterbury Museum, Timaru	29 Jun – 22 Sep 2024
Te Awamutu Museum, Te Awamutu	3 Apr – 18 Jun 2024
Waikato Museum, Hamilton	23 Sep to 3 Nov 2023
Te Papa Tongarewa, Wellington	29 May to 20 Aug 2023

Hosting enquiries

Pat Stodart
Touring Exhibition Manager
Email: touringexhibitions@tepapa.govt.nz

Crustaceans of Aotearoa New Zealand and the South Pacific

Crustacea includes lobsters, crabs, shrimps, prawns, hoppers, wood lice, water fleas, and several other groups. Most crustaceans live in the sea but some are found in freshwater or on land. The one thing they all need to survive is water, or at least a moist habitat.

Clever Crustaceans activity book

Primary

Crustaceans come in all shapes and sizes – from huge king crabs to tiny sand hoppers! Get to know them through movement, storytelling, puzzles, and more!

Activity book

A man in a wetsuit is holding a crayfish up in front of himself. He is looking at the camera.

Traditional knowledge and the kōura nursery cycle

Exhibition experience developer Dan Parke spoke with Tamati Stevens a kairangahau (researcher), kairuku (diver) and educator specialising in rocky reef ecosystems.