May 13

MEDIA RELEASE

Digging the dirt on our history in the Hokianga

People in the Hokianga area will have a golden opportunity to dig a little deeper into the archaeological history of their district on May 21st.

Archaeologist Bill Edwards – who is also the NZ Historic Places Trust’s Northland Manager – will give a public talk entitled An Introduction to NZ Archaeology with the NZHPT at the Rawene Town Hall (6pm, May 21st).

“We also want to encourage people to come along and share information about the history of the wider Hokianga area,” says Bill.

“There’s a huge amount of local heritage knowledge out there in the community, and we’re very keen to tap into that. We’ll also be running some displays, and a fun quiz for people to test their archaeological wits, followed by supper. It’s going to be fascinating and fun.”

The archaeology of the Hokianga area is fascinating – and Bill is looking forward to sharing some of that knowledge with people from around the area.

“The Hokianga incorporates some of the earliest Maori oral history traditions – including those relating to Kupe – which are really important from the perspective of the history of Northland and New Zealand. The intertwining of these oral histories with archaeology is always fascinating,” he says.

“The Hokianga also has a strong history of early contact between Maori and Pakeha, as well as the development of industries like timber milling and ship-building.”

An Introduction to NZ Archaeology with the NZHPT takes place at the Rawene Town Hall at 6pm on May 21st. Bookings recommended – contact sgraham@historic.org.nz or phone 09-407-0470. Admission free – all welcome.

ENDS

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