New Zealand Studies

This course examines Maori and indigenous peoples’ knowledge in such fields as astronomy, physics, conservation biology, aquaculture, resource management and health sciences. It provides unique perspectives in indigenous knowledge, western science and their overlap, as well as an essential background in cultural awareness and its relationship with today’s New Zealand scientific community.

This course examines the historical realities of the Treaty, enabling an understanding of the modern colonial nation state and its processes with respect to Indigenous peoples. It covers Maori responses, engagement with, and resistance to the colonial project leading to a critical understanding of colonialism.

This course examines the Treaty of Waitangi to frame examinations of contemporary New Zealand society. In addition, the course looks at the importance of this document in the maintenance of Crown and Maori relations. Topics covered range from the signing of the Treaty, and historical developments, to the protest movements and activism of the continuing Maori renaissance period, race relations and one law-for-all.

This course introduces students to conversational Māori pays particular attention to pronunciation, greetings, and forms of language associated with certain cultural functions, such as mihimihi, as well as tasks such as thanking people, farewelling, communicating personal information, and naming everyday objects.

This course examines New Zealand history in a global perspective. It covers the way forces of imperialism, colonization, capitalism and racial conflict have shaped modern New Zealand and its place in the world.