Protest Tautohetohe: Objects of Resistance, Persistence and Defiance

For a small, peaceful democracy in the South Pacific, New Zealand has had its fair share of major protest issues, and over the decades New Zealanders have become adept at mobilising around causes. From protest about war—be it the New Zealand Wars, the Great War, the Vietnam War, or the invasion of Iraq—to trade union action, protests against apartheid and nuclear ship visits, protests for the rights of women and LGBTQIA+ people, protests for better race relations and to protect the environment, and protests to save key services and protect heritage, Aotearoa New Zealand has a long legacy of activism. This richly illustrated book brings together the objects made by protesters to proclaim and symbolise their causes and their struggles. From banners to badges, t-shirts to teatowels, and posters to photographs, it is a vivid reflection of 250 years of resistance and persistence.

Stephanie Gibson is Curator Contemporary Life & Culture at the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa. She is researching the material and visual culture of protest, conflict, and reform, as well as everyday life in Aotearoa New Zealand. Her continuing museological research focuses on museums and community participation. Puawai Cairns (Ngati Pukenga, Ngati Ranginui, Ngaiterangi) is the Head of Matauranga Maori at Te Papa. She specialises in contemporary social history research and collecting to reflect the stories of Maori communities. Matariki WIlliams (Tuhoe, Te Atiawa, Ngati Whakaue, Ngati Hauiti) is Curator Matauranga Maori at the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa. She has a broad interest in the intersections within te ao Maori and how this contributes to a diverse contemporary Maori society.