New Zealand Journal of Archaeology Index > Vol 29 Scott.
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NEW ZEALAND JOURNAL OF
ARCHAEOLOGY ABSTRACT |
A Cost-Surface Analysis of the Exchange of Obsidian in Prehistoric New Zealand
Craig Scott1
ABSTRACT
The movement of obsidian from chemically distinct sources within New Zealand provides an opportunity to trace exchange. This paper explores the possibility of using the G1S technique of cost-surface analysis to establish possible routes of obsidian exchange, as well as aiding in the identification of those sites that may have played a centralised role in exchange. The correspondence between the position of South Island sites and the generated paths suggests that these sites could have been located for ease of communication. Fall-off in obsidian along sequences of sites along least-cost paths suggests that down-the-line exchange was occurring during the middle period of this analysis. This research has shown that realistic modelling of ocean travel should be an immediate goal of future research to ensure that cost-surface analysis is utilised to its full potential in the Pacific context.
Keywords: COST-SURFACE ANALYSIS, EXCHANGE, CIS, OBSIDIAN, LEAST-COST PATHS. CENTRALISED SITES, NEW ZEALAND.
1 Brian Avenue, Milford, North Shore City, New Zealand .
Ó Copyright New Zealand Archaeological Association.
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