“All seems so lovely because all is home”: The Archaeology of Home

“All seems so lovely because all is home” wrote Katherine Mansfield to Ida Baker, April 1918.

“Home” is both a physical place, and a concept of safety, comfort, and belonging.

In her work as an archaeologist Mary O'Keeffe has explored the idea of “home”: what places and areas in New Zealand have different people called home over the centuries of occupation, and how and why has this changed.   

In this illustrated talk, Mary will show the stories and small details revealed by archaeology that shape our ideas of what “home” is.

Part of New Zealand Archaeology Week 2026 and in conjunction with our current exhibition, Uncovering Katherine Mansfield's House. This event is free but, as a charity, donations are always appreciated.

Registration is required due to limited space in the house. Please note that this event will take place upstairs, see the Accessibility page of our website for more information.

You can also attend this event online via Zoom. If you register to attend via Zoom, a link will be sent to you at the bottom of the ticket you receive by email.

If you would prefer to register via email, please click this link. Due to our very small team, if you email after 12pm on the day of the event, we can't guarantee you'll receive the link in time.

Image: Fragments found during archaeological work at Katherine Mansfield House & Garden, reconstructed into a cup. Photo by Kevin Jones.