New Zealand Archaeology Week organized to showcase history, archaeological work

The aim of New Zealand Archaeology Week is to increase public awareness of archaeology and highlight the importance of protecting our archaeological heritage.

New Zealand Archaeology Week runs from 27 April to 5 May 2019, organized by the New Zealand Archaeological Association. Around the country, a variety of events are being hosted by consultant archaeologists, museums, heritage organisations and iwi to showcase New Zealand’s history and the variety of archaeological work that occurs here.

The aim of New Zealand Archaeology Week is to increase public awareness of archaeology and highlight the importance of protecting our archaeological heritage. New Zealand has a short but dynamic history of settlement, characterised by rapid environmental and cultural change. Archaeological sites in New Zealand relate the story of the first settlers from Eastern Polynesia around 1300 AD, the development of a unique Māori culture within a few generations, and the 19th-century settlement by European, Chinese and other immigrants. These sites help us understand New Zealand's domestic, maritime, military, industrial and farming history.

There is a range of events taking place around the country, from Whangarei to Dunedin. Many of these are public talks about archaeological sites, or what has been learnt through archaeological work. These are a fantastic opportunity to learn more about local archaeology and meet local archaeologists. There are also open days at labs in Auckland and Wellington, and in Dunedin, there are some practical opportunities at the Otago Museum and The Fernery at Larnach Castle. There are also exhibitions in Wellington and Christchurch, and in Wellington, there are two archaeological tours. For all the details of these events, check out the New Zealand Archaeological Association webpage: https://nzarchaeology.org/news-events/national-archaeology-week

The New Zealand Archaeological Association is a volunteer organisation that works to promote research and teaching in archaeology, strengthen links between professional archaeologists and non-professionals, as well as encourage conservation of archaeological sites within New Zealand.