Centre’s Work Proves an Exhibition Winner

Te Whai Ao — Dodd-Walls has shaped an exhibition about light with the Museum Of Transport And Technology (MOTAT) which has won International Exhibition of the Year at the prestigious Museums + Heritage Awards in London.

The Museums + Heritage global awards celebrate the very best of museums, galleries, and cultural and heritage visitor attractions from around the world.

MOTAT Director, Museum Experience, Sally Manuireva says the win by Te Puawānanga Science and Technology Centre is the museum-world equivalent of scooping an Oscar.

“We are immensely grateful for your contribution to Te Puawānanga and the success it has been with visitors and the wider community. We could not have done it without Te Whai Ao — Dodd-Walls Centre support,” says Sally.

The Dodd-Walls team which worked on the project included Deputy Director Engagement Jessa Barder who spearheads the Centre's delivery of science engagement activities to communities across Aotearoa and into the Pacific.

Jessa says, “This is fantastic recognition of the kind of brilliant engagement outcome produced by bringing together the arts, culture, and robust science in a format that is approachable, accessible, and relevant to a wide variety of audiences.”

The Centre team also included Dr Jami Shepherd, whose research with light has applications for medical imaging, Dr Mallika Suresh, whose research with light has applications for environmental monitoring, and PhD student Xindi (Andy) Wang, who is evaluating methods and techniques for improving student engagement in the sciences.

In announcing the award, the judges said, “This outstanding exhibition seamlessly blends science and Māori culture, creating a vibrant, culturally connected space for young audiences. With impressive visitor impact and strong evaluation outcomes, it sets a new benchmark for inclusive, engaging STEAM experiences.”

Te Puawānanga was shortlisted alongside 5 other museum exhibitions including the Grand Egyptian Museum, Cairo, and The Museum of Pop Culture, Seattle. MoTAT was delighted with the win amongst such other great exhibitions and for the recognition of Te Puawānanga as a culturally connected space for young audiences.