At a kiosk area in the foyer, where a tobacconist once operated, a video screen now offers a presentation by an actor dressed as a tobacconist.
Similarly, a lifelike digital image of a ticket clerk, also clad in 1940s garb, appears at the foyer's original ticket desk, sometimes addressing visitors as if they were customers seeking tickets.
Ten life-size cutout figures, including two situated in the nearby toilets, offer more information via recorded audio messages.
The recently reopened foyer will remain open when most of the museum is closed during its continuing $35 million redevelopment project, due for completion in late 2012.
Museum exhibitions team leader Jennifer Evans said polytechnic helpers had done a "fantastic" job in following a brief from museum staff.
The students had co-ordinated a host of creative activities to make the historical presentations a reality, including liaising with actors, writing scripts, carrying out filming and sourcing items needed for props.
"Public feedback has been very good," she said.
Otago Polytechnic Applied Design Research Centre general manager Mark Miller was impressed by what about 20 design students and polytechnic staff had achieved.
Student Blair Arthur said it was a "good feeling" to have helped create the new displays.
