Successful implementation of a digital preservation programme relies on many well known factors, including strong management support, adequate funding, appropriate technology and motivated staff possessing the required skill sets. Naturally, very few organisations would cite disinterest in collaborating externally to pursue such initiatives. However, one noticeable pitfall that can ensnare organisations is the delay in engaging the wider organisation in the software development lifecycle. As a result, the digital preservation programme runs the risk of reducing its effectiveness when integrating digital preservation management throughout the organisation.Using the National Library of New Zealand (NLNZ) as an example, this case study illustrates how its digital preservation programme, the National Digital Heritage Archive (NDHA):• used internal collaboration to prepare its integration with the Library's infrastructure.• laid the foundation for the programme as it moved from project mode into business as usual.• provided the basis of the ongoing relationship between the organisation and the digital preservation programme.The National Library of New Zealand's experience offers a unique insight into the use of internal collaboration strategies within a digital preservation programmet. It is hoped that this study will be beneficial to other organisations in the process of implementing their own digital preservation programmes and encourage strong internal collaboration practices.