Overview
Examination of the extraordinary transformation in New Zealand family forms from 1830 to today. How these changes occurred and the role of the law in shaping these transformations.
Topics we will consider include shifts from ‘natural’ reproduction to medically-assisted reproduction and fertility regulation; childlessness and adoption, debates over ‘ideal’ parents and shifting means of promoting, managing, or constraining parenthood. We ask how the law has shaped the social history of family in New Zealand, ranging from the dominant Pākehā nuclear family model to single parent-led and same-sex families in the twenty-first century.
Using a range of sources, including media stories and case law, students will develop a rich understanding of the range of family forms across New Zealand's history.
About this paper
| Paper title | Special Topic: Creating Kiwi Families: Historical and Legal Perspectives from 1830 |
|---|---|
| Subject | History |
| EFTS | 0.15 |
| Points | 18 points |
| Teaching period | Not offered in 2026, expected to be offered in 2028 (Distance learning) |
| Domestic Tuition Fees ( NZD ) | $1,103.10 |
| International Tuition Fees | Tuition Fees for international students are elsewhere on this website. |
- Prerequisite
- 36 200-level points
- Restriction
- HIST 230
- Schedule C
- Arts and Music
- Notes
- May not be credited with HIST230 when taken with the same content.
- Contact
To be advised when paper next offered.
- More information link
- Teaching staff
To be advised when paper next offered.
- Textbooks
To be advised when paper next offered.
- Graduate Attributes Emphasised
- Global perspective, Scholarship, Communication, Cultural understanding.
View more information about Otago's graduate attributes. - Learning Outcomes
To be advised.