Hocken Collections

The Hocken Collections is a research library and archive in Dunedin organized across three floors containing manuscripts, photographs, maps, and artworks that document New Zealand and Pacific history. The materials span different media and cover various periods and topics related to the region's development and cultural heritage.

Dr. Thomas Hocken founded the collection in 1897, and it first opened to the public in 1910 within a dedicated wing of the Otago Museum. Since then, it has grown to become a major repository of regional and Pacific historical records.

The collections hold important Kāi Tahu materials that document Māori history and traditions, serving as a vital resource for understanding indigenous perspectives in the region. Visitors can explore records that reflect how local communities maintain connections to their heritage through preserved documents and oral histories.

The facility is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM for researchers and visitors to explore the collections. Specialized staff are available to assist with accessing materials, and it is helpful to inquire ahead if you are seeking particular items or have specific research needs.

The collections house thousands of digitized items including the largest collection of early photographs and manuscripts about Otago's regional development. This digital access allows researchers worldwide to study these materials remotely without needing to visit in person.