New Zealand Community Archive communityarchive.org.nz

Overview

The New Zealand Community Archive (communityarchive.org.nz) is an online platform hosting local and community archival collections from across New Zealand. It is designed to make local and community heritage materials accessible to the public online.

Background

The platform reflects a broader effort within New Zealand to provide online access to community-held archival material that might otherwise remain inaccessible to the public. Archives New Zealand had previously maintained a 'Community Archives' site that listed archived material, but this was discontinued. The Archives and Records Association of New Zealand (ARANZ) subsequently identified the need to create a successor platform to promote records and their locations nationwide.

The New Zealand Community Archive provides a vehicle for community groups, local libraries, museums, schools, and other organisations to broadcast their collections digitally, adding to the documentary heritage of the country.

Collections and Holdings

The platform aggregates collections from a variety of community organisations across New Zealand, including historical societies, local authorities, schools, churches, and other institutions. Materials typically include photographs, documents, maps, newsletters, and other local history records.

Access

The archive is freely accessible online and allows users to search and browse collections from participating organisations across New Zealand.