Story: Kauri gum and gum digging
The soil from swamps was often washed through screens, leaving behind kauri gum chips, small pieces of wood and other debris. This was heaped in a pile, usually on top of a hill that was exposed to sun and wind. The gum chips would be thrown in the air, allowing the wind to blow away the lighter material – a process called winnowing.
About this item
Alexander Turnbull Library, Northwood Collection (PAColl-3077)
Reference: 1/2-061992; F
Photograph by Arthur James Northwood
Permission of the Alexander Turnbull Library, National Library of New Zealand, Te Puna Matauranga o Aotearoa, must be obtained before any re-use of this image.