Completion Approaches for Project Preserving 400,000 Audio-Visual Archives
Massive Digitisation Project Nears Completion
Overview of the Project
A significant digitisation initiative aimed at preserving New Zealand’s rich audio-visual heritage is nearing its conclusion. This comprehensive project has already safeguarded nearly 400,000 historical files, ensuring that important cultural materials are accessible for future generations.
Collaborating Institutions
The digitised materials originate from various storied institutions, including Ngā Taonga Sound and Vision, Archives New Zealand, and the National Library. These collections span a timeline from the 1920s to the present day.
Content Sources
The project encompasses diverse content sources, such as TVNZ, Radio NZ, the Waitangi Tribunal, Whakaata Māori, and the former New Zealand Film Archive. By gathering these materials, the project aims to create a cohesive narrative of New Zealand’s audiovisual history.
Importance of Digitisation
Kate Roberts, director of Ngā Taonga Utaina, emphasized to 1News that many of these historic materials risked being permanently lost without digitisation. She explained, "The items we digitised were all magnetic media and they were never meant to last; they were always meant to be migrated."
Preservation and Accessibility
According to Jess Moran, Chief Librarian of the National Library, this project is one of the most ambitious attempts at digitisation ever undertaken in New Zealand. Moran stated, “It’s the first step in unlocking this kind of material so future generations of New Zealanders have access to it.”
Progress and Completion
As the project approaches its final stages, only a few hundred files remain to be processed. The completion is on track for this December, marking a vital milestone in preserving New Zealand’s audiovisual history and making it accessible for all.
Closing Thoughts
This extensive effort not only safeguards New Zealand’s audiovisual treasures but also ensures they remain available for public enjoyment and educational purposes. What are your thoughts on the impact of digitisation projects like this on cultural heritage?
