A short scan of Māori journeys to Antarctica

Abstract

The narratives of under-represented groups and their connection to Antarctica remain poorly documented and acknowledged in the research literature. This paper begins to fill this gap. Our exploration of Māori connections to Antarctica details first voyagers through to involvement in recent science projects, as well as representations of mātauranga in carving and weaving. This exploration begins to construct a richer and more inclusive picture of Antarctica’s relationship with humanity. By detailing these historical and contemporary connections, we build a platform on which much wider conversations about New Zealand relationships with Antarctica can be furthered. More than this, however, we create space for other under-represented groups and peoples to articulate their narratives of connection to the southern land- and sea-scapes. In so doing, we provide significant first steps for uncovering the rich and varied ways in which Antarctica features in the lives and futures of indigenous and other under-represented communities.