Manuscripts are the unpublished records of individuals and institutions. Collections of manuscripts originating from the same organisation are sometimes referred to as archives.  

Our holdings

The Manukau Research Library holds a number of manuscripts and archives of Counties-Manukau origin. These holdings are listed and described on the Community Archive (National Register of Archives and Manuscripts). In the case of the larger collections, inventories are available on request. 

Local authority archives

Auckland City Council archives holds all surviving local authority archives relating to Otahuhu.

Manukau City Council archives holds all surviving local authority archives relating to Manukau, Manurewa, Howick and Papatoetoe.

The Papakura District and Franklin District councils hold most local body archives relating to their own areas.

Papakura Museum also holds photocopies of some of the older Papakura records, while the surviving records of road boards within the old Franklin County area have been transferred to the National Archives Auckland office.

Lists providing guidance to the location of local body archives relating to Manukau City, Papakura District and Franklin District and their predecessor and associated bodies are available.

Other holdings

Manukau City Council holds the archives of a number of local community organisations. Several local historical societies also hold significant collections of items relating to their own area. In some cases these are reported on the Community Archive.

For information on other significant manuscript holdings of local interest, see:

Archway

Auckland City Libraries

Auckland Museum Library

Tapuhi. 

Donations

Donations of manuscripts are welcome. Email the Manager Research Services, bruce.ringer@manukau.govt.nz.