The Geology Digitization and Virtual Access Fund supports the work of the Department of Geology at the University of Otago as it undertakes a multi-year project to digitize, catalogue, and showcase one of New Zealand’s most important scientific collections. Donor support through AUOA enables the creation of high-resolution 3-D models, online catalogues, and virtual exhibits that make Otago’s geological heritage accessible to researchers, students, and the public around the world.
This annual update highlights progress over the past year and demonstrates how philanthropic support has accelerated digitization, funded student roles, and enabled innovative approaches to collection management and science outreach. Contributions to this fund act as “seed capital,” helping Otago modernize a century-old collection and expand global access to this significant scientific resource.
Background and Objectives
Otago’s Geology Collection dates to the 1860s and includes over 100,000 specimens representing New Zealand’s tectonic, volcanic, and palaeontological history. The Digitization and Virtual Access Project, led by Associate Professor Virginia Toy and a team of curators and students, aims to:
- Digitize the entire collection with high-resolution imaging and 3-D scanning.
- Create a searchable online archive linking specimen data to field maps and publications.
- Preserve fragile specimens by creating accurate digital surrogates.
- Provide global access for education and research.
Recent Outputs and Highlights (2024 – 2025)
Toy V., Bishop A., Michalak A. (2024). Digitizing Deep Time: Integrating 3-D Imaging into Geoscience Education and Collections Management. Geological Society of New Zealand Conference Proceedings, 2024.
Otago Geology Museum (2025). Fossil Treasures of the Geology Museum (e-publication). Showcases 50 key fossils with links to 3-D models and print-ready files, demonstrating AUOA-supported digitization in action.
Otago Daily Times (2025). “New 3-D Scanning Project Brings Fossil Archive to Life.” Confirms phase-two digitization progress and the project’s role in enhancing international research collaboration.
The Role and Impact of Donor Support
Donations through AUOA have enabled the purchase of 3-D imaging equipment, student intern funding, and the development of a public-facing digital repository. Philanthropic support provides flexible capital—allowing Otago to move quickly, pilot new approaches, and build proof-of-concept platforms that attract larger national funding.
Looking Ahead
Between 2025 and 2027, the project will complete digitization of Otago’s type fossil and mineral collections, launch a Virtual Geology Museum website, and integrate the dataset into New Zealand’s national research infrastructure.