Motueka — An Archaeological Survey

by Aidan J. Challis.

This volume is the seventh New Zealand Archaeological Association Monograph. Excellent presentation by the publishers (in both hard and soft cover), with high quality maps and drawings by the author support an informative text covering a wide range of archaeological evidence.

The five chapters which discuss: (1) archaeology in general, environment and tradition; (2) settlements and structures; (3) artefacts and chronology; (4) subregional characteristics; and (5) conclusions of the study; form a coherent narrative. Dr Challis is able to demonstrate with clarity the considerable value of archaeological site surveying and surface collecting carried out in a systematic manner under the auspices of the Historic Places Trust.

The subregions of the Motueka area discussed by Dr Challis are Sandy Bay, Kaiteriteri, Riwaka, Motueka, Moutere, Mapua and the Motueka Valley. Within these areas the site types located were fortified pa, middens and ovens, cultivation sites, pits and terraces, burials and stone working areas. Artefacts are discussed under three major categories: ornaments and weapons, food producing equipment, and adzes.

The research done in order to write this book was undertaken while Dr Challis was a teacher at Motueka High School during 1974 and 1975 and a Post Doctoral Research Fellow at Auckland University in 1976. The absence of archaeological excavation in the Motueka district to support the conclusions offered in the book should provide stimulation for further archaeological research.

New Zealand archaeological publications are few in number. The people of the Nelson District and the wider New Zealand public are fortunate to have access to this work by Dr Challis. It will go some way towards fostering an informed attitude to prehistoric studies and this can only enhance the work of the New Zealand Historic Places Trust in preserving New Zealand's heritage.