History of Taranaki revisited
History shared during New Zealand Archaeology Week.
You don’t have to travel to learn about ancient cultures when there’s a prehistoric world in your own back yard.
Leading Taranaki archeologist Ivan Bruce says this region is absolutely loaded with fascinating history.
‘‘We’ve got a very complex and interesting archaeology for a very short period of time,’’ Bruce said.
Bruce wears two hats, as a member of the New Zealand Archaeological Association and the other as chairperson for Heritage Taranaki Inc. The two entities share a common thread: the preservation, conservation, and promotion of archaeological sites and heritage places.
Together they are on a mission to keep the nation’s often forgotten history alive through New Zealand Archaeology Week 2018.
Heritage Taranaki is hosting a series of three events to support the week, which runs from April 28 to May 6.
Archaeologist Susanne Grieve’s experience with cultural heritage preservation, material culture, and archaeology, spans the globe. On May 4, she will lead two interactive workshops at the Mt Egmont Alpine Club Rooms in Hawera.
The first is Science in Heritage Conservation and runs from 4pm5.45pm, this demonstration is a chance to see science work its magic on real historic objects.
Simply pack your curious minds to discover how the professionals identify different material types then prepare to be challenged at figuring out mystery objects too.
The second is a presentation, Oh the Places You’ll Go, Adventures in Archaeological Conservation and kicks off at 6pm. People who attend can expect to learn about the variety of ancient objects that conservators work to preserve in museums and on site.
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to re-explore shipwrecks, desert oases and frozen continents
After a trip around the oldworld it’s back down-to-earth on May 5, for a two-to-three hour walking field trip with Bruce to Puketarata Pa¯ and surrounding sites. From midday join him on a tour of iconic archaeological sites and fortifications ranging from prehistoric Ma¯ ori archaeological fortifications to conflict sites of Taranaki Wars. Meet at Puketarata Garden on 14 Ngawini Rd in Hawera.
All three events are free and people of all ages are welcome, no bookings are required. For more information email Moira Doherty, dohertymoiranz@gmail.com
‘‘We've got a very complex and interesting archaeology for a very short period of time.’’
Ivan Bruce