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Hocken Collection Archives

Thomas Morland Hocken (1836-1910)

Archives and manuscripts are records of social and organisational activity which are preserved because of their continuing value to individuals, organisations or society.

They provide:

• Evidence of activities and interrelationships
• Information about associated people, organisations, events and places

The Hocken Collections Archives and Manuscripts Section collects material of national importance but particular emphasis is placed on documenting the history of Otago and Southland.

Dr Hocken, through a wide and energetic correspondence, acquired important documents and letters from many early settlers. These include records of the Canterbury Association, Captain Cargill and the Otago Association, and the papers of Dr. Edward Shortland. The acquisition in 1906 of records from the Church Missionary Society, which included Samuel Marsden's letters and journals, was probably his greatest success in collecting.

These manuscripts still represent some of the Archive's most valuable holdings but the collection has grown significantly since 1910. It currently houses over 8,000 linear meters of archives and manuscripts.

These holdings are a primary source for research in areas as diverse as:

• The arts and intellectual development
• Commerce, industry and agriculture
• Education
• European settlement
• Experiences of war
• Health and social welfare
• The history of science & medicine
• Industrial relations
• Religion and the churches
• Sport and leisure
• Women and society

Many individuals and families have gifted their private papers over the years. These include eminent New Zealanders such as James K Baxter, Lady Anna Stout, Colin McCahon, and William Downie Stewart and many others who may be less well known.

Local and national organisations have also entrusted their archives to the Hocken. Examples of these organisations are: the Otago Education Board, Otago Clerical Workers' Union, Anglican Diocese of Dunedin, New Zealand Alpine Club, Hallenstein Bros. Ltd., and the Royal New Zealand Plunket Society Inc. National Office.

The Archive is also the repository for the University of Otago. Read more about the University archives.

Some collections or documents of a sensitive or personal nature are not available to researchers without the written permission of the donor. Staff can advise on the conditions of access for specific collections. Out-of-town researchers in particular are advised to check in advance of their visit.

Hakena is the online catalogue for the archives and manuscripts collections.

Last revised: 28 September, 2011