The brief – design an engaging permanent exhibition experience within the Hastings police station building, providing an appreciation and understanding of early law enforcement in Aotearoa.

We provided – spatial design | graphic design | production & installation | delivery management

The 19th century Hastings station and collection were transported to the New Zealand Police Museum in 2009, with the intention of creating a replica historic police station. As the building would not meet acceptable standards for public access without considerable modification, a new concept was developed that allowed the building to become the display case. Visitors view the exhibition from outside, without having to cross the threshold. 

Two viewing areas – the window in the original door and a new landscape-oriented window on the wall facing the museum – provide views into the space at a height suitable for adults and children, as well as allowing for groups.

The exhibition is highly visual, with succinct stories aimed at a cross-generational audience. Images are suspended within the space, interspersed with mounted objects. The experience is part of the museum's permanent exhibitions and is also linked to education and public programmes.