Mapping Areas of Cultural Significance

Takerei Norton, Trevor Howse and Matapura Ellison out in the field with archaeologist Brian Allingham as part of heritage mapping work.

Toitū Te Whenua continues to progress mapping areas of cultural significance with a particular focus on Kaikōura, associated with the tribal boundary, and the High Country. In this project to assist our cultural protection and revitalisation vision Ngāi Tahu place names, places and associated kōrero are mapped using a blend of literature research and, most importantly, kōrero from manawhenua. We have conducted field trips with Te Rūnanga o Kaikōura and Te Rūnanga o Makaawhio to cultural sites located within their respective takiwā and within parts of the High Country. The purpose of the field trips is to visit sites of cultural significance such as pā, kāinga, urupā, maunga, awa, mahinga kai, ara tawhito and archaeological sites in order to collect information from kaumātua on site and ensure sites are recorded as accurately as possible through photographic and global positioning data.

We have also been working with the Alexander Turnbull Library to acquire electronic copies of old paintings, drawings and photographs of cultural sites and landscapes. We continue to meet with kaumātua to discuss and collate information on Te Tai Poutini, Banks Peninsula, South Canterbury and Southland to be mapped once current areas have been completed. The collection and collation of this information continues to be very positively supported by rūnanga and whānau and is invaluable in enhancing analysis and recognition and protection of these areas. Our land-based takiwā is approximately 14 million hectares, so this project will continue to be a feature for some years.