We are working on a comparative history of national parks in the U.S. and New Zealand. Here is an abstract of a talk we gave in Pipestone National Monument's guest speaker series.
In 2012, environmental historians Ted Catton and Diane Krahe of Missoula, Montana travelled to New Zealand on a Fulbright to study the country’s national parks. New Zealand’s 14 national parks, which comprise more than ten percent of its land mass, showcase this island nation’s scenic beauty and unique ecology. The indigenous people of New Zealand – the Maori – are an integral part of the history of the national park system. This story began in 1887 when a Maori chief gifted three magnificent volcanoes to the nation. Today, the Maori are regaining a voice in national park management. Ted and Diane’s informal slide presentation will focus on Maori sacred sites and highlight some of their experiences learning about this culture. Their talk will offer comparison with sacred site protection at Pipestone National Monument.