Fossil Treasures of Foulden Maar

Fossil Treasures of Foulden Maar

By Daphne Lee, Uwe Kaulfuss & John Conran

A deep-time window into New Zealand’s ancient past.

Hidden in Otago, New Zealand, Foulden Maar is one of the most remarkable fossil sites in the Southern Hemisphere. This ancient lake bed, formed by a volcanic eruption 23 million years ago, has preserved an incredible snapshot of early Miocene life—plants, insects, fish, and more—captured in pristine detail through undisturbed sediment layers.

In Fossil Treasures of Foulden Maar, scientists Daphne Lee, Uwe Kaulfuss, and John Conran bring this extraordinary place to life. The book reveals the science, the story, and the significance of Foulden Maar, blending stunning visuals with accessible insights into paleontology and ancient ecosystems.

It’s more than just a fossil site—Foulden Maar has become a symbol of the growing need to protect irreplaceable natural heritage. The book shares the fight to save it from mining, highlighting the vital role of scientific advocacy and conservation.

Beautifully illustrated and rich with New Zealand’s deep-time history, this is a must-have for fossil lovers, nature guardians, educators, and anyone with a passion for the prehistoric.

24cm x 21cm | approx. 215 pages | NZBN 9781990048357