Puckering up for a big bug

Tūhura Otago Museum senior events co-ordinator Jessica Hatfield gives a giant African millipede a kiss as part of Bug Day on Saturday.

Ms Hatfield said its feet felt like Velcro on her hand.

The day was a chance for people to learn about the creatures from local bug experts.

The museum was supporting the velvet worm in the 2025 New Zealand Bug of the Year contest.

Aside from a voting booth for the contest, there was bee feeding, bug costume contests and a "hungry, hungry wet worm challenge".