ZoomTech, the Dunedin engineering firm creating the high-tech custom-built Eden Hore display pods was featured in the ODT ahead of their first public showing in Central Otago.
Design engineer Richard Cathro said work on the pods began about five years ago, inspired by discussions with fashion historian Dr Jane Malthus. Exhibiting such delicate garments outside museum conditions required a novel solution, leading to the creation of airtight, computer-controlled pods constructed from about 300 pieces of wood, plexiglass and aluminium. “It’s like a massive Lego set,” Cathro said, explaining that the system prevents dust while allowing viewers a clear view of the garments.
Coloured to reflect the Maniototo landscape and fashion photographer Derek Henderson’s Central Otago imagery, the pods demonstrate both innovation and craftsmanship. ZoomTech even built its own machine to bend the plexiglass when no supplier could do it. Since their debut, the pods have attracted interest from Te Papa and private collectors, and Cathro said the project was a rare chance for the company to showcase its creativity at home: “We do a lot of work overseas — this one we could finally show off.”
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