Pompallier Mission & Printery: Wet Plate Portrait Sessions

Commemorate Waitangi Weekend with a Timeless Portrait at Pompallier House and Printery

As we honor the legacy of the Treaty of Waitangi, there’s no better place to reflect on New Zealand’s history than the historic Pompallier House and Printery in Russell Kororāreka. Capture the essence of this moment with a wet plate collodion portrait—a photographic technique that dates back to the very era when the Treaty was signed.

The Treaty of Waitangi, signed in 1840, marked a pivotal moment in New Zealand's history, establishing a foundational relationship between Māori and the British Crown. As the nation's first capital, Russell Kororāreka holds a special place in this narrative, and Pompallier House—built just a few years after the Treaty—stands as a testament to the era's rich cultural and historical tapestry.

Step back in time within the walls of this iconic site, where the past and present converge. Your portrait will be captured using the same 19th-century techniques that would have been familiar to those who lived during the time of the Treaty. The process, which involves coating a plate of aluminium with collodion and exposing it to light, results in a one-of-a-kind image that is both raw and evocative.

Each portrait is a unique piece of art, meticulously crafted to reflect the depth and character of its subject. It’s more than just a photograph—it’s a connection to New Zealand’s past, captured in a moment that will be cherished for generations.

In the run up to Waitangi Weekend, commemorate the occasion with a portrait that not only celebrates your story but also honors the shared history of our nation. Book your session at Pompallier House and Printery today, and be part of something truly timeless.