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Issue 135

Term 4, 2025

A new look for a trusted learning resource

By Article by the Schools Catalogue Information Service (SCIS)

New Zealand National Library Digital resources Collection management

The National Library of New Zealand has unveiled a refreshed Topic Explorer, bringing a more intuitive, inclusive and visually engaging way for teachers, students and library staff to discover trusted resources.

New interface of Topic Explorer

We’re excited to share that the new Topic Explorer is now live on the National Library of New Zealand website. It brings a refreshed experience to a trusted tool that’s supported teaching and learning for more than a decade.

Hōpara Kaupapa (Topic Explorer) continues its mission to help teachers, school library staff and students in Years 0–13 (NZ classification) discover quality, curated online resources. The name hōpara kaupapa means ‘to explore the topics’, and the new version makes that exploration more intuitive, inclusive and visually engaging.

Why the update?

Since its original launch 10 years ago, Topic Explorer has become a staple in many classrooms and libraries across New Zealand. However, with evolving digital expectations and curriculum needs, it was time for a redesign to better support today’s learners and educators.

What’s new?

The updated Topic Explorer introduces a modern look and feel, with a landing page that’s more visual and user-friendly. Each topic is now represented by an image, making browsing more engaging. Users can:

  • browse featured topics
  • search by keyword
  • explore by curriculum year level.

Topics are now smaller and more targeted, curated to closely align with the New Zealand curriculum. This makes it easier to find relevant resources for specific learning goals.

Improved navigation and resource access

The new design streamlines the user journey.

  • Resources now open directly onto an item page, which replaces pop-up modals in the legacy version.
  • Enhanced image display allows users to view photos, artworks, cartoons and more directly within Topic Explorer.
  • Related resources are displayed in a right-hand navigation panel, making it easier for users to access a range of supporting materials in one place.

A new filter highlights content inclusive of te ao Māori perspectives, sitting alongside the existing primary source filter. This helps support a more inclusive and culturally responsive approach to learning.

Transitioning from the legacy site

To support a smooth transition:

  • The legacy Topic Explorer will remain available until the end of 2025, while content is built up on the new version.
  • Both versions will run concurrently until the end of this year, giving users time to update their catalogues and explore the new version while still using the old.
  • When the legacy site is retired, links will redirect to the new Topic Explorer homepage.
  • For SCIS users: New SCIS numbers will be allocated to topics on the new version, and library staff will need to redownload the Topic Explorer collection from our collections page to ensure their records are up to date with the new site.

We encourage users to start exploring the new Topic Explorer. It’s a great opportunity to see what’s changed and how the new features can enhance your resource discovery.

Need help?

Support is available. Users can submit feedback directly to the National Library of New Zealand team through the “Send us your feedback” link on the new Topic Explorer site. The team is ready to assist with any questions or transition needs.

Links to both the new and legacy versions of Topic Explorer:

Article by the Schools Catalogue Information Service (SCIS)