Summary

The New Zealand archaeological sequence is short by comparison with most parts of the world but it contains a rich record and one that offers interesting archaeological opportunities. Almost uniquely in world terms, first European contact with Maori was at a time of scientific inquiry and many of the first encounters were by skilled and educated observers who left detailed records. To this body of material, Maori knowledge in the form of oral histories, traditions, and genealogies has been added, resulting in a detailed documentation of an indigenous society prior to European influence. This serves as an excellent foundation from which to investigate the emergence of this indigenous society out of a very differently adapted cultural baseline. To make matters more interesting still, the entire unfolding of Maori history occurred in isolation from any outside influences, a situation that is also unique in world terms. A century of archaeology in New Zealand has contributed a good knowledge of material culture and of economic change, but much remains to be done in both substantive and theoretical terms, in terms of understanding the processes of culture change that resulted in the emergence of Classic Maori culture as seen by the first European visitors and as recorded in Maori oral history. Contemporary archaeological work in New Zealand takes place in partnership with Maori whose ancestral relationship to New Zealand’s heritage places and prehistoric material culture is recognized in statute and through the Treaty of Waitangi. Maori have been active in historical scholarship for more than a century and are increasingly involved in archaeological research and teaching. Most recently, Maori scholars and tribal representatives have been engaging in international debates about who owns the past and the repatriation of taonga (objects of cultural value) and human remains from overseas. This is contributing to the development of a richer and more culturally informed archaeology.

See also: Migrations: Pacific.