Welcome to the Theatre

A wonder-filled world of moving mechanical devices

Winding Thoughts Theatre

The Masterpiece of the Lost Gypsy

The Winding Thoughts Theatre is the creation of Blair Somerville, a NZ artist who is critically acclaimed for his automata art. No trip to the Lost Gypsy is complete without seeing the Theatre. Blair spend more than two decades making works meant to be touched, and his very best works are in this museum ready for you to be operated.

The Lost Gypsy spell sign

121+

buttons to push, wind, & play

$ 10

entry

14+

years in
creation

1

Top activity in Papatowai

Play Video

Click on the video to see Blair and the Theatre

Rewarding the Curious

It’s that hidden gem in the Deep South waiting to be discovered. Adventuring with your partner, friends, or solo -your tiki tour in The Catlins is not complete without visiting The Lost Gypsy.

Why, you say? What’s so special about it?
This is a place you could have never imagined to exist- and will never see alike. Here, at the far end of the world, artist Blair Somerville has dedicated his life into an ever-growing tinkering oasis. All he touches turns into art, and you’ll run out of ears and eyes to capture his inventions. In here, creativity is seeping out of every nook and cranny.

The Lost Gypsy randomness button

What is the must-see?
Every Winter Blair toils on his Masterpiece, The Winding Thoughts Theatre. If you want to capture a glimpse of his genius mind, make sure to explore this museum. Your curiosity will be rewarded. Blair is obsessed with movement -sound – light, so all in here is made to pleasure your senses. Wind handles. Push buttons. Touching stuff is a MUST! Its automata art at its finest, and the closest thing to making you feel like a kid again. Without a doubt the highlight of your Catlins trip.

How much is it?
The museum is $10, which can be paid in the Gallery (inside a green Leyland house bus). Visit the museum by opening the gate and wander the path – it’s up in the garden. Tip, if you’d like a taste of the place, start in the Gallery, which is free. Visitors keep telling us that this is the best money they’ve spent in The Catlins – and we dare you to find anything better!

The Lost Gypsy Stained Glass Window

Recommended by

Excellent
Based on 165 reviews
MagicRoundabout365
MagicRoundabout365
08/01/2022
Amazing…. Whether you’re young or older, you will have fun at The Lost Gypsy Gallery - the fist entrance is free and you could spend a long time here - pay $8 per adult (adult only area) for further entertainment and interaction which was great fun - this place is easy to find but check when it’s opening times are as we’ve been trying to go to this place for ages - the owners are wonderful and clever - inspiring imagination - there a small eating and coffee area but as we’d already eaten we missed out on sampling what they had on offer, maybe next time….. we would highly recommend The Lost Gypsy.
nina p
nina p
08/01/2022
Lost Gypsy has been found 😉 Recommended by our host this was a great place to experience something different. So many cool inventions. Great break from nature, road trips and tramping.
ricochet1977
ricochet1977
03/01/2022
Great for kids of all ages Had been recommended this by a friend and still didn't know what to expect. Amazing and wonderous for kids of all ages, and best of all is you can go in for a look in the bus for free and there's lots of things with so much thought in them. So worth a look (and a touch/push/play!).
JoteePark
JoteePark
02/05/2021
A must see Such a cool little spot. So pleased we called in. It was hard to drag ourselves away. Great coffee too.
Jay bee
Jay bee
31/03/2021
A hidden gem, must do From the curious to the frankly weird, these creations make one wonder at the creative thoughts behind them! Coffee from Carol's caravan is excellent along with her home baked treats. A must visit on any Catlins tour.
Allen McCormick
Allen McCormick
16/03/2021
Coffee Caravan I had two long blacks and two Belgium Biscuits. They were the best and as good as any I have had in my 50 years coffee and Belgium Biscuit career.
Inspiration456650
Inspiration456650
26/02/2021
A Must See We stopped here for a coffee and what wonderful unique place. Great coffee and very helpful owners and the caravan with all the wonderful gadgets is a must see.
Denise B
Denise B
21/02/2021
Country gem Loved this place. Fabulous coffee and home made baking. Came every day we were in this area. Mentioned I was gluten free and the next day owner had baked delicious GF blueberry muffins. Setting great also.
Michelle T
Michelle T
08/02/2021
A wee treasure I'd seen this place advertised and so thought I'd call in for a look and a coffee to go. I sat down, with my dog as he was allowed which for me was a huge plus. I assume the lady that served me was the owner and she was super friendly. What a great, quirky wee place...a wee treasure. Loved looking around and my dog enjoyed being able to be with me while I had my coffee
Pete and Trish Amos
Pete and Trish Amos
06/02/2021
Great coffee and quirky gadgets Great coffee and sweet treats, just like Mum's home cooking. Fascinating collection of quirky gadgets, great for young and old. Great place to stop.