# Wai-te-ata Press > Heritage printing and book research space at Te Herenga Waka Victoria University **Wikidata**: [Q130469816](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q130469816) **Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/wai-te-ata-press ## Summary Wai-te-ata Press is a heritage printing and book research space located at Te Herenga Waka Victoria University of Wellington in New Zealand. Established in 1962 by Donald McKenzie, it functions as a research institute dedicated to the study and practice of book arts and printing history. The press plays a significant role in preserving and advancing traditional printing techniques within an academic setting. ## Key Facts - Founded in 1962 by Donald McKenzie - Located in Wellington, New Zealand - Part of Victoria University of Wellington (Te Herenga Waka) - Classified as a research institute - Official website: [https://www.wgtn.ac.nz/wtapress](https://www.wgtn.ac.nz/wtapress) (in English) - Dedicated to heritage printing and book research - Celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2012 ## FAQs ### Q: What is Wai-te-ata Press? A: Wai-te-ata Press is a heritage printing and book research facility at Victoria University of Wellington. It supports academic research into historical printing methods and book production, while also offering hands-on experience with traditional printmaking tools and processes. ### Q: When was Wai-te-ata Press founded? A: Wai-te-ata Press was established in 1962. It marked its 50th anniversary in 2012, highlighting over five decades of contribution to book arts education and research. ### Q: Who founded Wai-te-ata Press? A: The press was founded by Donald McKenzie, who played a pivotal role in shaping its early direction and commitment to scholarly printing practices. ## Why It Matters Wai-te-ata Press holds enduring importance as one of New Zealand’s longest-running centers for book arts research and heritage printing. Embedded within Victoria University of Wellington, it bridges the gap between historical craftsmanship and contemporary academic inquiry. By maintaining letterpress equipment and archival collections, the press enables students, researchers, and artists to engage directly with pre-digital publishing traditions. Its work contributes to both cultural preservation and interdisciplinary learning in fields such as literature, design, and media studies. As a specialized research institute, it supports critical engagement with material texts and fosters appreciation for the tangible aspects of written communication. ## Notable For - Being one of New Zealand's oldest university-based printing research facilities - Hosting a working letterpress studio used for teaching and experimentation - Maintaining a collection of historic typefaces, presses, and printed works - Supporting interdisciplinary research across humanities and fine arts disciplines - Hosting public exhibitions and workshops that promote awareness of book arts ## Body ### History and Foundation Wai-te-ata Press was founded in 1962 by Donald McKenzie at what was then Victoria University College in Wellington, New Zealand. From its inception, the press served dual purposes: supporting academic research into historical printing practices and providing practical training in typography and bookbinding. In 2012, the press celebrated its 50th anniversary, marking half a century of continuous operation and scholarly output. ### Institutional Affiliation The press operates under the umbrella of Te Herenga Waka – Victoria University of Wellington. As part of the university’s broader academic mission, Wai-te-ata Press aligns itself with research initiatives focused on cultural heritage, literary history, and artistic production. It maintains formal recognition as a research institute, reflecting its ongoing contributions to scholarship through publications, exhibitions, and pedagogical programs. ### Research Focus and Activities Wai-te-ata Press specializes in heritage printing and book research. Its activities include: - Operating functional letterpress studios equipped with vintage machinery - Curating archives of rare books, manuscripts, and typographic artifacts - Publishing limited-edition works using traditional hand-set type - Offering courses and internships in book arts and print culture These efforts support both undergraduate and postgraduate studies, particularly in areas intersecting literature, art history, and cultural studies. ### Digital Presence and Outreach The official website ([https://www.wgtn.ac.nz/wtapress](https://www.wgtn.ac.nz/wtapress)) serves as a central hub for information about upcoming events, past projects, and educational resources. Content on the site is presented in English and includes detailed descriptions of the press’s history, staff profiles, and samples of published materials. Through digital outreach, Wai-te-ata Press extends its influence beyond campus boundaries, engaging with national and international communities interested in book arts and print history. ## References 1. [Source](https://www.wgtn.ac.nz/wtapress/about) 2. [Source](https://community.scoop.co.nz/2012/03/wai-te-ata-press-celebrates-50th-anniversary/)