[unar]

I am a scientist considering leaving basic research and going into adult education, public outreach and museum related work when I make my move to Wellington.

My dream job is being posted on the Te Papa website right now (here is the address if anybody is interested: http://www.tepapa.govt.nz/TePapa/English/AboutTePapa/CareersAtTePapa/NSSUP.htm), but I am not ready to apply yet (still no visa and in London). The job description is quit extensive, and I fit most of the requirements except for a basic understanding of the Maori language and culture. I want to learn a bit now before we move. Did anybody try to learn the language before/after the move? Was it difficult? Can anybody recommend some good Maori language and/or history books? Also maybe a good New Zealand history book?

Thanks
-Una

[bartons]

The standard book on NZ history seems to be Michael King's History of New Zealand (Penguin) which obviously covers a lot of Maori history, too. It seems to be the standard book on the subject, and it's an excellent read.

[mgbridges]

The standard book on NZ history seems to be Michael King's History of New Zealand (Penguin) which obviously covers a lot of Maori history, too. It seems to be the standard book on the subject, and it's an excellent read.

I was about to recommend exactly the same title.

Anneliese

[unar]

Thanks for the suggestion. It is unbelievably difficult to find books about New Zealand (apart from travel guides) here in London. I went to three huge book stores on Charing Cross on Sunday and didn't find much. Seems like the King's book is out of print... I guess I would have to use Amazon. I am going to the NZIS London office again, may have a peek at their books.. probably really expensive though.

By the way, if anybody is interested, this website http://www.korero.maori.nz/ seems to have good info on learning Maori language and culture.

-Una

[SNK05]

By the way, if anybody is interested, this website http://www.korero.maori.nz/ seems to have good info on learning Maori language and culture.

Great site Una...thanx

Sue
xx

[unar]

Just another piece of info.. the new zealand shop in the royal opera arcade behind the New Zealand house has loads of books. The books are not that expensive either, just a bit more than Amazon. They have the King's book too (didn't realise it is such a big book). This time I didn't buy anything (well except for burger rings :)) because I am a bit low on funds this month.

-una

[mylesdw]

The standard book on NZ history seems to be Michael King's History of New Zealand (Penguin) which obviously covers a lot of Maori history, too. It seems to be the standard book on the subject, and it's an excellent read.

I would have to disagree with you there; it is by far the dullest book I've ever read (and I work in engineering!). As I read it I could not help feeling very sorry for the unfortunate students who will have this tome foisted upon them.

[Keith O'Sullivan]

Hi Una,
Suggest you look at a NZ internet auction site www.trademe.co.nz - I just had a look for that book and and there's a couple starting around the NZ$10-12 mark (3-4 pounds). Obviously postage to the UK on top of that but may still work out a bit cheaper.

Cheers,
Sully

[Bruckner]

This link might help. It's gives the e-mail address for a local bookshop here in Devonport that sells a wide variety of books including books on Maori history and culture: http://www.abebooks.com/home/evergreen/

Emily

[JoJo76]

http://www.maori.org.nz/

Just discovered this if it's any help to anyone

[Parsley]

Oo - thanks for that link - it's got some interesting stuff on it. I was going to give you some reputation for that but it won't let me (apparently I have to spread it about first!)

[JoJo76]

Give it to caroline & dave, I nicked the link from them:D

[Ana&Steve]

I thought I posted this :Maori Language (http://www.maorilanguage.net)
Maybe on a different thread?:uhohI'm losing it...

[JoJo76]

I thought I posted this :Maori Language (http://www.maorilanguage.net)
Maybe on a different thread?:uhohI'm losing it...

That look great cheers, off to have nosey:nice1

[Pookeko]

Hi Una,

Just a suggestion but if you have kids you might consider going to Kohanga Reo held at New Zealand House every Saturday morning.
http://www.kohanga.co.uk/about.html

Going to kohanga with your kids a gentle way to be introduced to Maori customs and language - for adults as well. =)

I don't see why you wouldn't be welcome.

We got along only a few times as we had to travel from the West Midlands to get there but it was so nice to get a bit of a Maori culture so far away from home. :cool: :)