I had the privilege to join a team of very skillful carvers in Motueka and help them with their mahi. Although my carving skills are very questionable, I was encouraged by Tohunga Kaiwhakaiiro (Master Carver), kaumātua John Mutu and young carvers Ronie and Hayden. I am very proud that one tiny part of this traditional whakairo (carving) was done by me. Also, we had the company of Hori Kahukura from Te Arahanga and Syd Eru from Manawhenua ki Mohua. Both are experienced cultural monitors with vast knowledge about Tikanga Māori and tales and stories about tangata whenua. Working with them on archaeological sites or spending time off work together while fishing, exploring, or just chilling with a box of beers is always an absolute pleasure. It was an amazing sunny day in beautiful Motueka, Ngā mihi nui e hoa mā!

Link to short video from this day: https://youtu.be/SfqxgVlV_Xc

Angel’s Archaeology has been busy during 2021-2022 with projects big and small within the beautiful South Island. Christchurch, Kaikoura, Rakaia, Woodend and Mapua produced interesting residential and commercial sites for archaeological assessments and fieldwork; the work is still ongoing. The installation of Ultra Fast Broadband (Fibre) in Mohua (Golden Bay) for Chorus is one bigger project where Angel Trenfdafilov was involved as Project archaeologist for Pohara and Tata Beach and Section 45 archaeologist for Collingwood. The work is still ongoing for another few months. Amazing Māori archaeology exposed so far from both sides of Takaka Hill (check Photos). Pieces of evidence from the Gold Rush in Collingwood (1850-1860s) are also a possibility in the near future. The collaboration with Manawhenua Ki Mohua (in Golden Bay) and Te Arahanga (Mapua) is fantastic, and it is always a pleasure to work with their experienced and knowledgeable cultural monitors on site. 2022 will be an exciting year with projects already aligned, so watch this space from time to time!