Technological change at Hayes Engineering Works, Oturehua, New Zealand

Abstract

How does innovation in material culture occur? In this thesis, I critically examine the role of the individual in this process and contrast it against a wider background of political, economic and technological change.

The case study selected is Hayes Engineering Works, Oturehua, Central Otago, New Zealand. Hayes Engineering manufactured durable products for the agricultural industry. The period selected for this thesis is 1895 to 1926, which coincides with the founders, Ernest and Hannah Hayes' active involvement in the business.

The theoretical position of this thesis is that change in material culture is not the result of individuals, but builds upon the efforts of many. I examine and demonstrate the connections between the artefacts at Hayes Engineering Works and the wider world.

This is in contrast to a widely held myth that material culture especially that associated with agriculture in New Zealand, developed because of isolation. I argue the opposite, and conclude that this material culture developed because of a myriad of connections; personal, professional and technological. An economic and political framework, combined with the skills of the individual, led to changes in material culture.