Digging up Christchurch’s past: How ancient artefacts are protecting our city’s history

When almost a million artefacts are unearthed from under the city streets of Christchurch, what do you do with them? 

You carefully clean, photograph and research them, and then create the first ever online archaeological museum in New Zealand. And that’s exactly what the Christchurch Archaeology Project (CAP) did.  

Led by Katharine Wilson, CAP came to Great Scott requesting support for the launch of the database. We knew the brand story had to be all about connections – making connections to the artefacts and stories, and highlighting their importance to the history of Canterbury.  

Great Scott set out with some objectives, including developing a simple, inviting brand, growing awareness for the online museum through a variety of channels, including media, and generating users to the website. 

Our target was three positive media stories on the launch, and we can proudly say we exceeded that. 

The Press, RNZ, Newshub, The Star, The Spinoff, CCC Newsline, Newstalk ZB and TVNZ covered the launch in depth, sharing the story of the artefacts and the individual stories they tell. 

Why ‘museum’?  

Because MoAŌ isn’t just a collection; it’s a narrative. It invites us to piece together the mosaic of our shared humanity. Here, the unearthed artefacts breathe life into forgotten stories. They remind us that beneath the bustling present lies a hidden past – a tapestry waiting to be rewoven.   

A new brand and website design, combined with a powerful communications strategy has brought the Museum of Archaeology Ōtautahi story to life and ensured our city’s history will never be forgotten. 

The stories these artefacts hold will continue to be told for generations to come, and that’s a pretty powerful thing.  

 “I just wanted to say what an absolute pleasure it has been to work with you and your team. Everyone from Great Scott who I've dealt with has just been so nice, positive and enthusiastic, and basically lovely. And that's without even mentioning the excellence of the work - from the design and branding, through to getting the right name, the social media tiles and all the words, and then the media launch itself.  

 “Your team has done a phenomenal job and I'm so stoked we chose to work with you.” - Katharine Watson.