The installation was made possible by US$1M prize money from the Bloomberg Philanthropies Mayors Challenge. This funding supports the development of digital tools to engage the community on climate adaptation and show how we can get ready to face the future.
It’s an exciting development for Wellington City Council, opening opportunities for cross-council collaboration and new ways of decision-making regarding how Wellington works and grows.
Head of Natural History at Te Papa Philip Edgar believes the exhibition will fit seamlessly into the current Te Taiao exhibition.
“Te Papa's Te Taiao Nature exhibition invites visitors to discover New Zealand's unique natural environment and to understand the environmental challenges our country faces, while encouraging ways to get involved to shape a sustainable future. The 'Our Changing City' experience complements this vision by offering a compelling, localised perspective on climate impacts and adaptation strategies that visitors, particular our Wellington region visitors, will relate to.
“This highly engaging interactive is a great short-term addition to Te Taiao that we know will capture the attention of visitors, educate, and encourage thought and discussion. It's been great to work with the team at the Council to put this in place at Te Papa.”
This installation lets you interact with digital displays revealing the potential impacts of rising sea levels, more intense storms, and shifting weather patterns in Pōneke. You’ll be able to:
- See realistic visuals of Wellington’s past, present and future and how climate change could reshape our coastlines and neighbourhoods.
- Explore interactive maps and animations showcasing solutions like retaining walls and sustainable stormwater systems.
- Discover how long-term planning can protect our whenua and learn from global communities facing similar challenges.