This course introduces students to archaeological field and lab work through practical experience and theoretical investigation. The fieldwork component will take place before the semester (provisionally scheduled for 14th to 28th of February 2026) on Ahuahu Great Mercury Island. During the semester we will meet to investigate the theoretical underpinnings of various field and lab methods and the legislative framework for archaeological practice in New Zealand and globally. Students will do lab work throughout the semester.
Please note that the course is restricted entry and requires an application. To apply, please enroll in the course AND send Prof. Ladefoged an email at t.ladefoged@auckland.ac.nz by November 24, 2025. In the email, be sure to use “2026 Archaeological field school” as the subject line and briefly explain what anthropology/archaeology courses you have taken, your ability to participate in hard physical activity and why you would like to take the field school.
ANTHRO 200 is a prerequisite for enrolment in ANTHRO 317. In evaluating ANTHRO 317 applications, first priority will be given to students majoring in Anthropology or Anthropological Science, ranked by GPA in their best three Anthropology or Anthropological Science courses with ANTHRO 200 double-weighted; with second priority given to non-Anthropology major students, according to their GPA in their best three Anthropology courses with ANTHRO 200 double-weighted.
You will be notified of the result of your application early December 2025.