The Otago Settlers Museum has launched its redeveloped internet site to update the public while the museum is closed for a $35 million upgrade.
The new-look site offers detailed information on building work progress, concept diagrams and photographs.
The site - at www.otago.settlers.museum - also gives details on some artefacts and provides event listings, education programmes and resources for teachers.
"Our actual doors are closed but our virtual doors are open," the site says.
Through a new "museum mash-up" section, young people are also invited to send in emails expressing, in text message format, what it would have been like for Scottish migrants heading to Otago via sailing ship in 1848.
The museum, which is owned by the Dunedin City Council, closed in April and is not expected to reopen until its redevelopment project is completed late next year.
Settlers museum director Linda Wigley said the museum, with the support of the city council, had worked with Dunedin company Firebrand to "improve the appearance, navigation and functionality of the website".
Museum webmaster Lynda McLea said the site offered "a mix of today's technology and something historic".
