Protecting Our Heritage: New Zealand Historic Places Trust Pouhere Taonga

Archaeology

Archaeology is the discovery, recovery and interpretation of the surviving evidence of past human activity in its context in or above the ground. Archaeological sites are distinguished from other heritage sites because they are relics of our past.

Māori Heritage

Māori heritage comprises a wide range of different places and items from the physical and tangible to the natural environment and the intangible. Māori heritage places are treasures, taonga, a distinctive and unique dimension within New Zealand heritage overall.

Local government

Local authorities participate in heritage management in various ways, including preparation of district plans and policy statements under the Resource Management Act, statutory processes, and management of historic heritage such as regional parks and buildings.

Currently consulting on

The NZHPT often seeks comments from the public on a variety of heritage and heritage management matters as required by the Historic Places Act 1993. These comments are taken into account by NZHPT decisionmakers.

Advocating for heritage

Advocating for heritage at all levels is critical for the NZHPT. It regularly makes submissions on governmental policy development and legislative framework. Research relevant to heritage and heritage management is part of our advisory role.

Funding for heritage

There are various agencies including the NZHPT which offer financial assistance for those who wish to protect and conserve heritage places.

Covenants

Heritage covenants attach to a land title and place conditions or restrictions on its use. They are therefore a very important mechanism for long term heritage protection.

Heritage Redesigned: Adapting Historic Places for Contemporary New Zealand

Heritage Redesigned - adaptive reuse in New Zealand

There are many reasons for finding uses for historic places, rather than merely destroying them to build anew. Read some successful, practical examples of the reuse of historic places within New Zealand.

Heritage Buildings and Places post-Earthquake

The NZHPT's staff are working with the CERA, Councils and other authorities offering assistance and support. Our thoughts and best wishes are with everyone affected. See our FAQs page for information regarding historic places post-earthquake.

Historic New Zealand - Pouhere Taonga