Ikawai : Freshwater Fishes in Maori Culture and Economy

This landmark publication draws together all that has ever been written about the role of freshwater fishes in the lives of early Mäori. Species such as tuna (eels), kanakana (lamprey), inanga and kökopu were of high importance in the traditional diets of Mäori, who were well aware of the places and seasons in which these fish could be harvested. Bob McDowall has made it his life’s work to read every word ever written on the subject of Mäori fisheries, from passing references in explorers’ diaries, to the significant literary achievements of Elsdon Best and Te Rangi Hiroa in the 1920s, to the recent reports of the Waitangi Tribunal. In Ikawai, all the knowledge on record is connected into a coherent account for the first time, and interpreted in the light of modern scientific knowledge of the fish fauna. As well as being highly informative, Ikawai also serves to illustrate the beauty associated with Mäori fisheries. Bob has amassed an extraordinary collection of photographs of the fish themselves, of the artefacts Mäori customarily used in catching fish, and of artworks by modern Mäori practitioners, some reflecting the many legends and stories associated with fish. He has also unearthed some stunning and highly significant historical images that were hidden away in archives, libraries and photographic collections. This compendium is an essential resource for anyone interested in the lives and livelihood of New Zealand’s earliest settlers.

Featured in the 20 June 2011 New Zealand newsletter.
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