University of Otago, Hocken Library

Dunedin

This $8 million project encompassed the redevelopment of the dairy co-operative cheese factory as a new home for the internationally renowned Hocken Library Collection. State of the art facilities to store rare and irreplaceable heritage and historical collections of books, manuscripts, photographs, art works and other artefacts of international and national significance formed part of the project brief.  Creating the environment in which the treasures could be stored securely was important, however there was also a need to evaluate and encourage access for research and curiosity.  Accordingly, providing galleries and specific spaces for exhibition, contemplation and study was also required as well as the provision of service and support spaces for access and research.

During the construction phase, as well as comprehensive project management services, Octa planned and managed the relocation of the Hocken Library Collection from the University Campus to the new facility.