Using DNA to uncover the lost histories of the Māori taonga of Te Papa
Te Papa researchers: Lara Shepherd and Isaac Te Awa
Like many other museums, Te Papa holds a large number of Māori taonga, such as kākahu and kete, that lack information about their provenance.
The aim of this work is to determine the origins of these orphaned collection items through DNA testing – taking a step towards reconnecting these taonga to people and place.
The results will likely give insights into the different weaving practices in different geographic regions, as well as information about the past genetic diversity of several bird species.
Funding: Te Papa Foundation
Strigops habroptila, collected February 1961, Cleddau Valley, Fiordland, New Zealand. Gift of Wildlife Branch, 1961. CC BY 4.0. Te Papa (OR.009487)