Auckland Council Libraries: Sound archives

Sound archives

He Kōrero Tuku Iho ā-Waha

Listen to lived experiences in Tāmaki Makaurau since the 20th century. Our research collections hold many oral history and sound recordings for public access.

A black and white photo of a boy with headphones putting on another pair of headphones on a teddy bear. This is part of the Auckland Council Libraries heritage collections.Robert Emirali and his teddy listening to a crystal set, 1928. Photographer Samuel Frith, Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections.



How to access recordings

Some collections and single recordings can be found online while others can be accessed in person by appointment with a specialist librarian. 

Have a research question? Get help from specialist staff by filling out the research enquiry form.


Sound formats

Recordings have been donated in different formats over time. The collection includes reel-to-reel, analogue tapes, VHS, compact discs, microcassettes and born-digital files, all in a range of languages. 


Life history interviews

A black and white photo of a man using recording equipment. This is part of the Auckland Council Libraries heritage collections.
Bruce Elsmore, a keen tape recordist, recording a request show to send to New Zealand troops overseas. Photograph published in the South Auckland Courier Central Edition, 6 September 1967, page 25. 

Discover life history interviews with individuals who have contributed to the story of Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland throughout time. These recordings date back to the turn of the 20th century and cover every decade until the present day.

Interview topics include everything from descriptions of wāhi  and landscapes, culture, sports and games, to private and domestic life, migration experiences, ahumahi  and much more. 

Witness lived experiences and reveal memories rich in personal and social history. 


Borrow recording equipment

A group of people outside, one using recording equipment while another seems to be interviewed.

Want to record your own oral history? Arrange to borrow the ZoomH5 equipment to record audio at sound preservation standards. Our specialist staff will provide an in-person tutorial. 

Use the research enquiry form to apply to borrow the ZoomH5. 
Available to library card holders, terms and conditions apply.


Want to donate to the collection?

Do you have existing recordings of family, events or interviews that might be of value to our collection? We are happy to assess and discuss the possible donation of material into our collections or advise on an appropriate archive for your collection.

Enquire about donations via the research enquiry form



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Auckland Council Libraries:Sound archives Read about the Auckland Council Libraries sound archives collections which hold many oral history and sound recordings for public access.