ABSTRACT. For over 2 decades, there have been calls for Polynesian archaeologists to identify radiocarbon samples to taxon and material type, and preferentially date short-lived materials. This stems from recognition that even modest amounts of inbuilt age are problematic in this oceanic region where human settlement dates to the last 3 millennia or less. Despite programmatic statements to this effect, and empirical demonstrations of value, uptake of these practices has been slow. This article suggests that short-lived materials be defined as those with lifespans of 10 yr or less, recognizing that reducing the distance between target event and the dated material is an ongoing aim for archaeology. We identify both short-lived materials that are suitable for dating and long-lived species (>75 yr) that should be avoided given their potential for inbuilt age. Additionally, we suggest that given the destructive nature of 14 C dating there is value to (1) obtain high-resolution photographs of samples prior to analysis, (2) split samples and archive residuals when possible, and (3) routinely report the tools and expertise used in identification. Past and recent dating analyses at a Polynesian site in the southern Cook Islands are used to illustrate how the suggested protocols might enhance current and future studies. We also establish that mature Calophyllum inophyllum, a common coastal tree and valued timber species, has been in the southern Cook Islands for at least the last 700 yr and is likely to be indigenous and long-lived.

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The iconic Ho'oumi Beach site Nuku Hiva Island (Marquesas), was excavated by Robert Suggs in the late 1950s. It figured importantly in his island-wide reconstruction of settlement patterns, socio-political organisation, material culture and subsistence change -a cultural historical framework that has guided Marquesan archaeology for six decades. Ho'oumi is also one of four Marquesan localities where prehistoric ceramics have been found. We revisited Ho'oumi to acquire chronological and palaeoenvironmental context for two cultural occupations reported by Suggs. Eight 14 C determinations on short-lived materials and new marine reservoir corrections are reported, and the overall series evaluated using Bayesian modelling. A single ceramic sherd, previously assigned to a Fijian source, is attributed to the thirteenth to fourteenth centuries AD -a period when Marquesans engaged in long-distance voyaging. A significant marine inundation disrupted the associated occupation, leading to sustained coastal abandonment. Stratigraphic and historical evidence suggests this was a palaeotsunami, which may also be represented at Hane (Ua Huka Island). House pavements of the early occupation were replaced by raised megalithic house foundations, probably around the late seventeenth to mid-eighteenth centuries AD, but material culture changes were modest. By late prehistory, mature native forest was largely replaced by secondary species and Polynesian introductions.

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