Peter Clayworth

Peter Clayworth is originally from the beautiful town of Nelson, in New Zealand’s South Island (Te Wai Pounamu). He now lives in New Zealand’s capital city of Wellington, on the North Island (Te Ika a Maui). Peter studied history at the University of Otago, in Dunedin, gaining a BA with first class honors and a PhD. In addition to the history of New Zealand, Peter has studied African, Indian, and Pacific history as well as the history of science and ideas. He has also studied zoology and ecology, and he has a passionate interest in the natural environment.

Peter is interested in all aspects of New Zealand’s history, but is particularly interested in the history of the Maori, New Zealand’s indigenous people. Peter is currently learning te reo Maori, the Maori language. He is also keenly interested in the history of working people and in the history of human impact on the natural environment. He has worked for the Waitangi Tribunal as a research officer on Maori land issues and as a historian for New Zealand’s Department of Conservation. He currently works as a freelance historical researcher.

Peter has travelled extensively throughout New Zealand and Australia, with a special interest in some of the more remote areas. He is a keen outdoorsman and has been a field assistant on archaeological and wildlife research expeditions. His work with Lindblad has allowed him to meet remark people whose eagerness to learn never ceases to amaze him.