Abstract:
Muttonbirding is historic hunting custom that is culturally and economically significant to the Rakiura Maori. It is a centuries-old tradition that refers to the gathering of muttonbird chicks and fledglings during the months of April and May. The right to harvest these birds is founded on genealogy and belong exclusively to the Rakiura Maori, and is thus a deeply significant aspect of the Rakiura Maori identity. This thesis explores the notion of rituals through the cultural landscape of the Rakiura Maori. Through responding to the three aspects of the ritual (breeding, processing, consumption) it pursues the celebration of this tradition while seeking to provide amenity to allow Rakiura Maori to become more informed and engaged with the birds. In light of changing modern lifestyles and conflicts with preservations that seek to undermine the persistence of this tradition, this thesis examines how architecture can reinvest in, and facilitate, its persistence and significance. This project responds to the three phases of ritual – breeding, processing and consumption – through programme across three islands in the Foveaux Strait: hunting ground on Shit Rock, workhouse on Ruapuke Island, and kitchen on Papatea (Green Island).