The Aotearoa New Zealand local history curriculum is all about making the best use of the people, places, and resources in your community to engage ākonga.
These free and affordable resources will help enhance your local history lessons about Chinese gold miners in Otago.
Chinatown Girl by Eva Wong
Historical fiction set in Auckland during World War 2. Chinatown Girl tells the story of a young descendant of Chinese miners. A good introduction to Chinese culture and the experiences of Chinese-New Zealanders in the late 1800s to mid 1900s. (Ages 10+)
Scholastic's teacher notes are a great supporting resource.
New Gold Mountain
Lessons for Y1-10 to assist teachers with the telling of local Chinese-New Zealand histories.
When you book, let us know if you are using New Gold Mountain in your classroom and what units you have used so far. We have designed this educational experience to compliment the curriculum.
Local Historical Images
Clutha Heritage by Clutha District Libraries
A digital community archive featuring photos from around the Clutha District.
Nelly in Aotearoa - Migration Stories
Though this resource is for Year 1-3 learners, the teacher’s guide contains valuable questions and activities that can easily be adapted for older ākonga as they begin to explore the reasons people migrate.
Choie Sew Hoy: Otago Pioneer School Journal Level 2
Choie Sew Hoy came to New Zealand from China in 1869. He became a successful merchant and entrepreneur in Otago and was prominent in public life. He was also a well-known leader and benefactor for the Otago Chinese community. Sew Hoy’s grocery store still operates in Dunedin today.
The Ventnor Story School Journal Level 3
Bok Choy School Journal Level 3
A fictional narrative set in Otago where a Chinese miner rescues a European boy from drowning. A comic-style version with audio is also available.
Following Gold School Journal Level 3
A poem presenting the experience of a Chinese miner moving to Aotearoa
Chinese New Zealanders School Journal Level 4
An article recounting the history of Chinese migration to Aotearoa New Zealand, from the 1860s to present day.
Family Photographs School Journal Level 4
A prose poem reflecting on two old photographs of the author’s father at different ages, one in New Zealand where he was born, and one a few years later when his family has returned to China for a time.
Sik Fan Lah! Surviving like a Chinese gold miner