How do I request records from the Hocken Library?

Contact the Hocken Library by email, phone, or in person

You can contact the Hocken Library for help with accessing records in their collection:

• email: archives.hocken@otago.ac.nz
• phone: (03) 479 8875  
• visit in person: 90 Anzac Avenue, Dunedin.

Requesting your records can bring up a range of emotions. Learn where you can find support to help you on your journey.

Search the collection online to find out what records they have

If you want to, you can find out what records they have before you visit the library, by doing an online search of:  

• The Library’s collection of printed materials
• The Library’s collection of digital material  

If you find printed records you want to view, you can request them so they are ready for you when you visit the Library in person.  

You can request permission to access restricted records before visiting the Library

Some records about places run by the Anglican Diocese of Dunedin may be restricted.

This means that the Library will ask you for proof that you have permission from the Bishop or Registrar of the Anglican Diocese of Dunedin to access them. 

To request permission to access restricted records, complete the Library application formopen_in_new.

In the form, include the following information:

• Your name and contact details
• The reference numbers of the records you want access to 
• The reason you want access to the records
• Whether you only want to view them, or also make copies of them.

Send the completed form to the Registrar of the Diocese of Dunedin:

• by email: registrar@calledsouth.org.nz  
• by post or in person:  
  • Peter Mann House Office 
    1a Howden Street 
    PO Box 13170, Green Island, 
    Dunedin,  
    Otago 9052

Bring photo ID when you visit the Library

When you are ready to visit the Hocken Library bring:

• your Hocken card or Otago University or Polytechnic ID (if you have one)
• photo ID so you can register with the Library.

Also bring your permission form from the Bishop or Registrar, if you are accessing restricted records.

When you arrive, you can ask for records at the reference desk.

Learn more about the Hocken Libraryopen_in_new.