Learn all about Taranaki's landscape and wildlife in the stunning Taranaki Naturally Gallery.
Large maps, computer interactives and informative consoles depict the formation of the region's landscape - from its drift away from the massive Gondwana continent over 60 million years ago through to later volcanic eruptions that give the region its distinctive character today.
Taranaki Naturally also shows the fascinating evolution of Taranaki's unique natural environment.
See and touch fossils more than 100 million years old.
Wander through a glass "forest" to find out which of the region's plants and animals - including weta, giant snails, and beech forests - are survivors from Gondwana.
See skeletons of the extinct moa - the world's largest flightless bird - and learn why Taranaki has taught us so much about these fascinating creatures.
Discover why Taranaki spent so many of its early years under the sea, and why the province is so rich in oil and other hydrocarbons.
You'll also enjoy seeing strange-shaped rocks and other geological "freaks" unique to the region.
Find out what creatures have lived in Taranaki over the years - including giant crabs, enormous birds, and fearsome sawsharks.
And come face to face with the giant Carcharodon megalodon shark that used to cruise our waters looking for prey!
Visitors can also trace the different periods of Taranaki geological history - from a couple of isolated islands to a tropical paradise with coconut trees.
As well an enjoying wildlife from former times, discover the wide variety of plants and animals now found in the region. Including native species such as seals and the rare Maui's dolphin, together with plants and animals introduced from overseas, many of which have wreaked havoc on the ecology of the region.
The gallery shows how human settlement has dramatically affected Taranaki's landscape and wildlife and also celebrates those who have harnessed the natural environment to produce bricks, iron, coal, natural gas and oil.
Supported by Taranaki Regional Council