Exploring cinematic legacy, vintage postcards, and technologies

Published on 26 June 2023

 ^{Caption: Candid shot of members of Lord of the Rings cast including Orlando Bloom}

^{Source: Upper Hutt Leader,  25 April 2001}

Our Heritage and Archives team have beautifully put together, not one but three, displays in our Heritage area of Central Library. We welcome you to come in and enjoy them.

UPPER HUTT: CINEMATIC BEAUTY UNVEILED

With its captivating scenic beauty and proximity to Wellington, Upper Hutt has emerged as an ideal location for film and television production. 

Renowned for our picturesque landscapes, the city has played host to a multitude of film sets, capturing the imagination of audiences worldwide. From the sweeping landscapes of Middle-Earth in the iconic “Lord of the Rings” trilogy to a poignant biopic showcasing the life of Te Rauparaha, the esteemed Ngāti Toa chief, Upper Hutt and its surrounds have provided cinema settings for filmmakers to bring their visions to life.

A new wall and TV display in the Heritage area of the Central Library celebrates our city’s contribution to New Zealand film and television. This showcase not only acknowledges the city's significant contributions but also serves as a testament to the creative talents and dedication of the local community. Come immerse in the captivating narratives that celebrate our city’s contribution to New Zealand film and television.

NOSTALGIC TREASURES: BURNS POSTCARD COLLECTION

We often have beautiful items hiding away in our archives and it is one of our privileges to put them on display. The Burns collection holds a remarkable assortment of treasures within our archives, and a highlight is the significant collection of New Zealand postcards dating back approximately from 1904 to 1948. Now, almost obsolete, postcards were once popular as they were a quick and easy way to communicate with loved ones.

These captivating selection of exquisitely illustrated postcards can now be appreciated in the left display cabinet situated in the Heritage area of the Central Library. These postcards offer a glimpse into the past, and serve as tangible pieces of history, capturing the essence of New Zealand during the early to mid-20th century. 

ROLE OF TECHNOLOGY IN SHAPING OUR MEMORIES

We don’t often think about the ways in which technology has helped shaped our memory. In the glass cabinet to the right of the Heritage area, a fascinating display named "Memory Makers" sheds light on this relationship. 

This small showcase highlights the various technologies that have transformed fleeting moments into cherished memories throughout the years. From 8mm film cameras capturing precious family gatherings to the creation of homemade mixtapes preserving the essence of a special time, these technological artifacts forged our connection between our past and our present, allowing us to cherish moments for years to come.

If you have any questions on any of these displays, please email heritage@uhcc.govt.nz

Click here to browse our online collection