Wānaka’s bespoke framing specialist The 45^th Degree is renowned for its framed maps which elevate home and office interiors and create an ongoing talking point.

“Part of their popularity is that Wānaka and Queenstown are such outdoorsy and active places and our maps are a nice cross-over between being a design feature in the home as well as a practical item for planning an adventure,” says The 45^th Degree owner Erinn Keith.  “We work with Geographx maps and have the rights to reproduce their range, or can create custom layouts using LINZ data for an iconic, classic look.”

“We also love working with customers to frame and preserve their own vintage maps protecting these items for future generations. Paper maps are fast becoming a thing of the past and it is always fascinating to see how the landscape, layouts, roads and paths may have changed over time.”

The store offers differing levels of quality and conservation to suit a client’s needs and budget.

“There is much interest in materials and sustainability with an up-tick in customers opting for raw or hardwood timber frames, custom paints and finishes,” says Erinn. “ We have new Italian made metal-look, industrial style frames that are popular and Mocha Mousse browns and neutrals, as predicted by Pantone Color Institute, are making a comeback.”

Several exhibitions are planned throughout the year including Edwards + Johann, Philip James Frost and Tim Middleton later in the year. Edwards + Johann are an award-winning duo whos collaborative work is designed to spark intrigue and the imagination, their exhibition Peculiar Formations is due to open June 13^th, followed by an exhibition of new work from Philip James Frost toward the end of July, running throughout August. 

“In spring we have lined up sculptor, artist and picture framer Tim Middleton,” says Erinn. “His work has more of a dark-comedy feel and probably not what you would typically see in a Wānaka gallery. Watch our socials or sign up to our mailing list for all the details.”