The Beating Hearts of Te Arawa
ROTORUA MUSEUM
Rotorua, New Zealand, 2011 - 680 sqm
The Project | In partnership with Story Inc, Studio Cassells delivered Ngā Pūmanawa o Te Arawa, a permanent exhibition for the Rotorua Museum. The design challenge was to respectfully narrate the rich, complex history of the Te Arawa Iwi, from their Pacific migration to the establishment of modern society and the enduring struggle for equality.
Our Role | Studio Cassells (contracted via Story Inc) completed the Concept Design and Detailed Design of hero exhibits and galleries. This involved close collaboration with Iwi members, historians, and specialist fabricators to create an accessible and engaging visitor experience.
Community-Led Cultural Narrative
Informed and led by Te Arawa Elders, the design ensures an authentic articulation of Iwi identity. Our team engaged directly with the community for guidance and approval, fostering an exhibition rooted in respect that was community-owned.
Solemn Tributes to Service
One gallery honours the 28 Māori Battalion through backlit portraits of those who served in WWII. This space acknowledges their fight for equality and the sacrifices made for their nation.
Ethereal Hero Installations
Collaborating with Master Carver Lyonel Grant and Weta Workshop, we developed a nine-metre translucent waka. CNC-milled from clear acrylic and backlit, this ethereal sculpture acts as a narrative canvas for the tribe’s legendary and epic Pacific migration.
A Journey of Mana and Utu
The experience flows from mythical Hawaiki origins to modern accomplishments. By weaving core principles like Mana and Whakapapa through the galleries, the design builds a foundation of Iwi strength before addressing the historical traumas of land conflict.