Geographies of Aotearoa/New Zealand

An introduction to the changing social and environmental geographies of Aotearoa New Zealand. Highlighting the spatial outcomes of local, national and global processes, the course will cover themes such as the spatial distribution of climate change effects, the diverse social and physical landscapes of Aotearoa, and local and regional economies. Key geographical concepts – place, space, flows and connections – will be introduced and drawn on to deepen understanding of the ways in which the landscapes of Aotearoa – as integrated human and physical environments – have changed, and continue to change. A decolonial lens – meaning one that honours Te Tiriti relationships and obligations, and explicitly contests the ongoing impacts and legacies of Aotearoa’s colonial history in terms of society, landscapes and knowledge construction – will help illuminate the contemporary challenges facing the diverse peoples and landscapes of Aotearoa.