By Jane Robertson. Published by Massey University Press, 2023. (NZD 75). Reviewed by Amos Johnson

Living between Land and Sea is a delightful historical read about the bays in Lyttleton Harbour. The author started off writing a history of the jetties and wharfs in Whakaraupo but with the stories she uncovered she quickly turned to compiling a full history of the area. Although I’m a Canterbury local and frequent visitor to the Lyttleton bays, I had no idea of their stories. Robertson recreates details of what it was like for local Māori, colonial settlers and long-time locals. I enjoyed discovering the tales of such well-known names as Orton Bradley, John Gebbie, Ohinetahi and Quail island.

This book has a little bit of everything — tragic stories of shipwrecks, a tsunami and a leper colony, as well as wonderful accounts of swimming, yacht racing and the triumphs of conservation. Every bay in the harbour has its own history which Robertson relates and accompanies with a wonderful array of photos, sketches and prints.

Living Between Land and Sea is a beautiful book — one you could pour over for its content or use for planning a visit to one of the bays. I recommend it to anyone with a connection to the area or with an interest in New Zealand history.

Tui Motu Magazine. Issue 293 June 2024: 25