Unique heritage in interactive database

Published on 21 November 2013

21 November 2013

A new database containing local photos, historical books, publications and archives of national significance is now online.

‘Ngâ Ripo O Mua Ripples of the Past’ was launched at a Family History Day at the Alexander Heritage and Research Library on Saturday, November 16.

Database users can tag images and locations and share content on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest, as well as creating their own personalised photo albums.

The database is a collaboration between local and national groups, the Wanganui District Library and the National Library of New Zealand.

Library staff and volunteers will work with the community to generate even more content by gathering information at family reunions, marae gatherings and in rest homes.

Wanganui District Council’s Community and Cultural Manager Sally Patrick says Ngâ Ripo O Mua will be the most comprehensive database of Wanganui’s past, but it needs input from the community to grow.

Ngâ Ripo O Mua allows people to add their own memories and comments to images and items on the database, giving the community the opportunity to tell the 'Whanganui Story' from their own perspective. Wanganui is a district of culturally rich and diverse history, and we need to continue to tell our stories.”

As more of the Library’s collections are digitised they will be added to the database.

Click here to view the databaseand learn about how you can contribute, or contact the Alexander Heritage and Research Library on 349 1000 or via email.