Stories of Mäori-Chinese reveals hidden history

For immediate release

Stories of Mäori-Chinese reveals hidden history of New Zealand

11 June 2007
AUCKLAND, New Zealand

A book on Mäori-Chinese in New Zealand by Jenny Bol Jun Lee will be launched at Waipapa Marae by Dr James Ng this Thursday.

Mäori-Chinese history in New Zealand has been an interesting struggle between multiple cultures and one in which, Jenny Bol Jun Lee, captures uniquely through accounts from Mäori-Chinese New Zealanders in her book, Jade Taniwha: Mäori-Chinese Identity and Schooling in Aotearoa.

“The identity of this unique group is the a result of a fascinating history on the margins of mainstream New Zealand history one often intersected with racism, exclusion and colonialism,” Jenny said.

“Mäori-Chinese take pride in their different traditions and draw strength from both Mäori and Chinese identities. This is a story that is uniquely New Zealand.”

The book charts the development of Mäori-Chinese in New Zealand, focussing on the role that schooling has played in their identity. A compelling and often deeply personal book, Jade Taniwha will be an important resource for academics as well as for readers interested in finding out more about this hidden aspect of our past.

Jenny is also a Director of Rautaki Ltd, and currently completing her Doctorate of Education. She was previously was a secondary school teacher and lecturer in Mäori Education at The University of Auckland from 2000-2005.

ENDS

Also being launched at the event is a new online resource for Mäori-medium schools: Whare uku.

www.rautaki.co.nz