History & Archaeology

The Tattooed Land

Share the secrets carved into the land itself.

Written to build a bridge between the ancient history of the South Island Maori and those who seek to know their story today, it is the result of years of research that the author calls — ‘History with boots on.’ It’s a unique record that stands alone. There is nothing quite like it.

Comprehensive archaeological surveys of pa, gardens, villages and trails are detailed in an abundance of maps and photographs, many diagrams and a magnificent array of drawings of artefacts. They set the scene that allows ancient lore and traditional tribal stories to bring the ancestors of yesterday alive.

‘The Press’ [Christchurch] reviewer wrote, ‘Every household should have one.’ It’s not an academic treatise but flesh and blood brought to life. It is indeed a bridge. One that speaks clearly of the people of the past and how their world remains for all to see.

They carved their lives into the land, their sweat and blood raised the walls of the pa high, cut deep ditches of defence, cleared the land for their gardens leaving long lines of stone and etched their house terraces into the hillsides. Thus were created the indelible marks, the rich heritage bequeathed, the tattooed land that speaks to those who seek.

The Tattooed Land

Hard Back

ISBN: 0-9583502-2-1

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