Protect Collections Before Damage Happens
Looking after an item or collection is easier, safer, and often more affordable when problems are identified early. We help you make practical decisions before damage becomes more serious.
Not every object or collection needs treatment straight away. Sometimes the best next step is understanding risks, improving storage, planning for emergencies, or getting clear documentation in place. We work with museums, councils, iwi, organisations, collectors, and whānau to assess what is needed now and what can prevent bigger issues later.
Our advice is grounded in real conditions and real use. We look at how collections are stored, handled, moved, displayed, and documented, then recommend practical improvements that support long-term care. Whether you need help with one item, a storage space, or a wider collection plan, we focus on clear information and achievable next steps.
When issues do arise, early action matters. From moisture and mould risks to poor storage, unstable materials, or emergency response after an incident, we help you respond in a calm, organised way that reduces further harm and supports recovery.
“Thank you and your team so much for the awesome work you’ve put into this.”
On-Site Assessments
We visit collections, buildings, stores, and project sites to understand what is happening in context. Through careful observation and condition assessment, we identify risks such as environmental issues, storage concerns, handling pressures, pest activity, damage, or deterioration. We then provide clear, practical recommendations to help you prioritise next steps for care, management, treatment, or long-term planning. Our aim is to give you the information and confidence needed to make informed decisions about the places and materials in your care.
Storage and Custom Housing
Good storage is one of the most effective ways to slow deterioration and reduce future damage. We assess how objects are stored, handled, and supported, then develop practical improvements suited to the collection, space, and available resources. This may include custom boxes, mounts, supports, padding, separation materials, or storage layouts designed to protect fragile surfaces, vulnerable forms, and mixed materials. Our aim is to make collections safer, easier to access, and better cared for over time.
Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Response
Unexpected damage can be overwhelming, but quick, informed action can make a significant difference. We support collections, heritage places, and project teams responding to water damage, mould, accidents, environmental events, and other urgent risks. Our role is to help assess the situation, prioritise vulnerable materials, stabilise affected objects, and guide safe recovery steps. We also help organisations prepare before an event happens through practical advice, planning, salvage guidance, and response training tailored to their collection or site.
Condition Reporting, Documentation and Research
Clear documentation supports good decision-making before, during, and after conservation work. We record the condition of objects, artworks, taonga, and collections through written reports, photography, imaging, and material research where needed. This information can guide treatment planning, transport, storage, insurance, exhibition, collection management, or future monitoring. Our approach creates a reliable record that helps clients understand what they have, what condition it is in, and what care may be needed next.