Ever wondered what scientists do all day? Come along and chat to Otago's real-world science researchers. Plus, roll up your sleeves and become a scientist in our interactive drop-in space. Perfect for curious minds of all ages.

Digging up the dead: Try out the techniques and tools used by scientists to dig for bones in our mock excavation – and learn how forensic science can uncover their stories.
Department of Anatomy | Te Tari Kikokiko

Time travellers: Delve into human history through ancient objects and discover what the past reveals about the future. Explore how our ancestors changed through time – our bodies, food, tools and objects.
Department of Archaeology | Mātai Whaipara Takata

DNA discovery: Learn about the molecules that make life work – DNA, proteins, and more. Pipette like a pro, vibrate with a vortex, and extract DNA out of a banana!
Department of Biochemistry | Te Tari Matū Koiora and Genetics | Mātai Ira

Plant secrets revealed: Explore a diverse range of plant life, from microscopic algae to mountain ecosystems. Get hands-on with real lab equipment that botanists use to unlock nature’s secrets – from sea to summit.
Department of Botany | Te Tari Huaota

Better brains challenge: Learn how to build a healthy brain. Test your brain with fun challenges, get “positively wired” with interactive games, and walk through our giant inflatable brain!
BrainSTEM Otago

Our climate future: Meet climate researchers from He Kaupapa Hononga – Otago’s Climate Change Research Network – and learn about environmental change and reporting. Map how climate change is impacting Aotearoa New Zealand, and take part in hands-on experiments about our changing world.
He Kaupapa Hononga – Otago’s Climate Change Research Network.

Technology zone: Experience cutting-edge technology up close. Test out virtual reality worlds, play with mixed reality tools, and discover how AI is transforming our future through hands-on demos.
School of Computing | Te Kura Rorohiko

Smile science: Explore the fascinating world of teeth. Get hands-on with dental tools and discover the art and science behind healthy smiles.
Faculty of Dentistry | Te Kaupeka Pūniho

Our changing world: Explore Earth’s amazing evolvement through interactive activities. Discover how Geography helps us understand our planet and our changing world.
School of Geography | Te Iho Whenua

Glow gallery: Discover hidden colours invisible to the naked eye, and watch ordinary objects transform into glowing wonders under special UV lights in our dark room adventure.
Department of Geology | Te Tari Tātai Arowhenua

Food for thought: Become a sugar detective in our food investigation. Uncover hidden sweeteners in everyday foods, test your knowledge with hands-on experiments, and discover how diet shapes our health. Get ready for smarter food choices!
Department of Human Nutrition | Te Tari Kai Tōtika Tangata

Coastal connections: Dive into marine wonders with the Aquavan team. Meet live coastal creatures, explore our unique ocean, and discover how you can protect our amazing underwater world.
Department of Marine Science | Te Tari Pūtaiao Taimoana

Mind-bending fun: Warp your point of view by travelling near the speed of light. Fall into a fractal, contemplate some curly probabilities, and try some tricky puzzles in our chill-out zone.
Department of Mathematics & Statistics | Te Tari Pāngarau me te Tatauranga

Physics discovery: Chill out with liquid nitrogen, understand superconductors, and marvel at lasers. Discover how physics opens doors to incredible future careers!
Department of Physics | Te Tari Hu-O-Te Kohau

Nicotine-free futures: Clear the air with an interactive exploration of nicotine. Trace its global journey, uncover industry marketing tactics, reveal its footprint of harm, and explore ways to create healthier futures.
Department of Preventive and Social Medicine | Te Tari Hauora Tūmatanui

Understanding our brain and behaviour: Learn how your brain and different environments control your behaviour. Enjoy our psychology-related activities for all ages and chat to our team.
Department of Psychology | Te Tari Whakamātau Hinengaro

Measuring and mapping worlds: Discover the world of high-tech mapping and measurement. Build live landscapes in sand and experiment with virtual water flowing over your design. Robotically measure our 3D environments, and explore our changing world through maps and virtual reality using surveying and geospatial science.
School of Surveying | Te Kura Kairūri

Power pioneers: Witness green energy in action and discover how clever machines harness wind, sun and motion to power a sustainable future.
Sustainable Energy, Department of Physics | Te Tari Hū-o-te-Kōhao

Animals magnified: Explore the fine details of some of Dunedin’s amazing wildlife. Use a microscope to investigate aspects of our local fauna, as well as other mystery animals that are normally invisible to the naked eye. Test your knowledge on native and introduced species of lizards, birds, and bees commonly found in your own backyard.
Department of Zoology | Te Tari Mātai Kararehe

Innovate Health: Delve into the science behind novel medicine formulations and cutting-edge research breakthroughs, including highlighting how personalised medicine is revolutionising treatment strategies.

Explore the pharmacist's pivotal role in community health, learn about the importance of medication adherence and drug interactions to the pharmacist's role as a trusted advisor in promoting wellness and disease prevention.
School of Pharmacy | He Rau Kawakawa