Overview
Promoting New Zealand
Hector had many duties as New Zealand's first official scientist, and he also spent a lot of time organising and administering the colony's representation at international exhibitions.
On Display
After the huge success of the Great Exhibition held at London in 1851, many nations organised their own exhibitions to celebrate progress and promote commerce. These exhibitions were hugely popular events that represented many nations by displaying their natural resources and commercial products.
During the 1870s and 80s several large exhibitions were held in Europe, Australia and the USA. New Zealand was invited to attend these events and the New Zealand Government turned to Hector to ensure that the colony's displays represented New Zealand to the best advantage.
Exhibitionist
Hector was New Zealand's exhibition 'Commissioner', after proving his talent for this work at the New Zealand Exhibition in Dunedin in 1865. His role was to select exhibits, organise their transport to venues, and supervise their display - plus promote New Zealand during the exhibition.
Commemorative Medals
Exhibition organisers recognised Hector's success as Commissioner by awarding him commemorative medals. Shown here are medals from some of the important exhibitions he was involved in: the New Zealand Exhibition (Dunedin 1865); the World Exhibition (Vienna 1873); the United States Centennial Exhibition (Philadelphia 1876); and the Australian Centennial Exhibition (Melbourne, 1888).