Recommended Kawhia and Maori Books
Tides of Kawhia
A fascinating novel by Tom O'Connor... Crammed with fascinating historical details, this novel introduces the reader to the enigmatic figure of Te Rauparaha. In the late eighteenth century, Kawhia is the prosperous heart of the people of Ngati Toarangatira.
But, beyond the borders ominous changes threaten to drive the iwi from their coastal stronghold. In the north, Nga Puhi acquire muskets, and to the east the Waikato tribes cast envious eyes on the bountiful waters and forests of Kawhia.
Into this mix the child Maui Potiki is born. He is later called Te Rauparaha – a name that today ripples down the pages of New Zealand history.
The young Te Rauparaha uses his wits, courage and audacity to become a military strategist, accomplished politician and tribal leader. Sharing his exploits is Te Rou Rou, born into slavery who, like the young man of rank, uses intelligence to improve his status in the often dangerous tribal life of the time.
When simmering animosities between the inland peoples explode into all-out-war, hundreds of warriors are left on the battlefield. In Tides of Kawhia , deadly fights and ancient Maori ritual mingle with delicate poetry and an impetuous hot-blooded people, bringing to life a period of history and a society unknown to many.
Format: Paperback, 214 x 136 mm portrait, 356 pages... 
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A History of Kawhia & it's District
A History of Kawhia & it's District was compiled by Peg Cummins and based on research done over a number of years, by Corban Ward, an amateur historian based in Kawhia.
After he died his family lodged his papers (four cartons of them) with the Kawhia Museum who in turn asked Peg Cummins, Corban's niece, to look at them. The result is the above mentioned book.
When people heard that the book was being written more material was submitted and the result is a handsome book of 300 pages detailing the history of Kawhia from early times to the present day and illustrated with many photos, drawings and maps.
The book complements "Kawhia South" by Ken Shaw & Colleen Neal, written some years ago about the south side of the harbour. This more recent book includes history about Kawhia & Maketu, Aotea, Te Maika, Taharoa, Oparau, Hauturu, Awaroa and Te Rau-a-moa.
There are numerous first-hand accounts from people living at various times in Kawhia as well as a substantial section at the end dealing with family stories.
An Old New Zealander: Or, Te Rauparaha, the Napoleon of the South
purchase here Maori Tribes of New Zealand
Maori Tribes of New Zealand - A guide to the main Maori tribes written especially for visitors and students, combining great photos of scenic New Zealandwith maps, Maori art and history. Written by New Zealand's top Maori historians, this is a perfect compact guidebook to the tribes of New Zealand. purchase here
Plant Heritage New Zealand
Plant Heritage New Zealand: Te Whakapapa o nga Rakau : Interpreting the Special Features of Native Plants
Plant Heritage New Zealand looks at the unique characteristics of New Zealand's plants, and what makes them so special. It delves into the origins and evolution of the plants, how they have inspired songs, poems and works of art, Maori myths, stories and proverbs associated with them, and their many uses as a natural resource. Part 2 presents a selection of the plants and looks at classification, names, botanical description, traditional and modern uses, cultural heritage and significance to Maori. Tony Foster's stunning photos highlight the beauty of the plants, as well as helping with identification.
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Native Edible Plants of New Zealand
A Field Guide to the Native Edible Plants of New Zealand
Plant Heritage New Zealand looks at the unique characteristics of New Zealand's plants, and what makes them so special. It delves into the origins and evolution of the plants, how they have inspired songs, poems and works of art, Maori myths, stories and proverbs associated with them, and their many uses as a natural resource. Part 2 presents a selection of the plants and looks at classification, names, botanical description, traditional and modern uses, cultural heritage and significance to Maori. Tony Foster's stunning photos highlight the beauty of the plants, as well as helping with identification.
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Mau Moko: The World of Maori Tattoo
Mau Moko: The World of Maori Tattoo
In the traditional Maori world, the moko, or facial or body tattoo, was a sign of great mana and status. Male warriors wore elaborate tattoos on their faces and bodies; women took more delicate chin tattoos.
After almost dying out in the twentieth century, Maori tattooing is now experiencing a powerful revival, with many young Maori wearing the moko as a spectacular gesture of racial pride.
Mau Moko is probably the most magnificent book ever produced about the moko, from pre-European times to the present day. It examines the use of tattooing by traditional and contemporary Maori and links it to other aspects of Maori culture.
Gender issues are considered along with tattooing techniques both old and new. The book features case studies of modern Maori who have made a personal decision to be tattooed; the role and status of the tattooers; exploitation of the moko in popular culture around the world by figures such as rock singers and football players. purchase here
Let's Learn Maori: A Guide to
the Study of the Maori Language
Let's Learn Maori: A Guide to
the Study of the Maori Language
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The Complete English-Maori Dictionary
The Complete English-Maori Dictionary
First published in 1981, this dictionary from was designed as a comprehensive finder-list. Over 15,000 headwords are given, each of which may have as many as several hundred Maori equivalents.
All the Maori words contained in Williams's Maori Dictionary appear here under English equivalents, together with words recorded in Tregear's Maori-to-English Dictionary but not in Williams. Well-established Maori borrowings from English are also included. purchase here