Retrospective Anthracological Analysis of Two Early Coastal East Otago Polynesian Settlements

Abstract

Curated archaeological charcoal assemblages are a significant palaeobotanical resource capable of providing insight into the human-plant interactions of the past. This thesis tests the appropriateness of two early Polynesian coastal east Otago charcoal assemblages, Shag River Mouth and Purakaunui, for retrospective anthracological analysis. The ability to inform on past fuel collection strategies and vegetative impacts is investigated through the taxonomic identification of specimens from within the two assemblages. The environmental impacts are investigated within the context of a modelled Initial Burning Period. Shag River Mouth is largely presented through single fire pit samples and was able to provide evidence of intensive resource depletion synonymous with the Initial Burning Period. Purakaunui provides a contrasting image of more sustainable resource management, distancing it from the trends predicted for early Polynesian vegetation management by the Initial Burning Period model. This research has shown that all curated archaeological assemblages can be revisited, although due consideration should be made as to research aims of such investigations