10. Archaeological Evidence and Traces of Early Settlers

What factors support the possibility that New Zealand’s first settlers may have come from Southeast Asia and New Guinea region?

Current View

While the conventional view holds that New Zealand was first settled around 1250–1300 AD, the possibility of earlier habitation remains a topic of debate. Evidence of earlier settlers could be buried or yet to be discovered.

Contributing Factors

The possibility that New Zealand’s first settlers may have originated from Southeast Asia and the New Guinea region is supported by a number of factors covered in this Blog and preceding Blogs 7 and 8:

Lapita Pottery:

One of the most intriguing pieces of evidence linking Southeast Asia to New Zealand comes from Lapita pottery. Archaeological evidence, such as Lapita pottery, provides clues about the first settlers in New Zealand. The motifs of Māori art clearly resemble the decoration on Lapita pottery, indicating a cultural connection to Southeast Asia. Lapita pottery is believed to have originated in the Bismarck Archipelago (islands on northeastern side of New Guinea) around 3300-3100 years ago, and then spread eastward into Remote Oceania.

Direct Maritime Routes Were Feasible

The possibility that New Zealand’s earliest settlers hailed from Southeast Asia and the New Guinea region is rooted in evidence from multiple disciplines—archaeology, oceanography, and cultural studies. From the seafaring prowess of ancient maritime cultures to the shared artistic traditions seen in Lapita pottery, the connections are as vast as the ocean itself.

The Lapita people, for example, were among the earliest seafarers to venture across the Pacific. Their voyages connected distant islands, fostering trade, cultural exchange, and the spread of knowledge. One of the most striking remnants of their civilisation is Lapita pottery, which features intricate geometric designs and motifs. These artistic traditions provide a tangible link between early Pacific settlers and their origins in Southeast Asia.

Beyond pottery, the Lapita people mastered the construction of double-hulled canoes, which allowed them to travel long distances with stability and efficiency. The interconnectedness of these maritime cultures is evident in their shared linguistic roots, navigational techniques, and artistic expressions. Their legacy continues to shape the identities of Pacific people’s today.

Many other civilisation groups exist within the islands of Southeast Asia and Melanesia, each contributing to the development of the region.

Could traces of these pioneers still lie hidden, waiting to be discovered?

The story of New Zealand’s first settlers continues to unfold, reminding us of the remarkable interconnectedness of humanity.

Let’s consider what evidence is available?

Your next read in the series: 11. What evidence exists in New Zealand suggesting human habitation over two thousand years ago?