The History of Southland Farming is a permanent exhibition capturing the pioneering spirit and development of Southland’s largest industry - from the arrival of early European settlers, to the establishment of farms and communities, and the progression of rural technologies from the mid 1800s through to present day. 

Your journey through this exhibition starts with a 10 minute introductory film in the Ted Stevens Theatre. Some visitors may recognise the narrator’s familiar voice - John Gordon of the popular 1980s TV series The Dog Show, and the first decade of the still popular NZ Country Calendar. Also an author and a farming historian, John’s words continue to tell the farming story in displays rich with historic images and local farming collections.