Edited by Helen Brown and Michael J Stevens. Published by Bridget Williams Books, 2022 Reviewed by Tui Cadigan

As a wahine Māori of Ngāi Tahu descent I feel fortunate to review this second volume of biographies of Tāngata Ngāi Tahu. In contrast to Volume One, over half of the people included in this book are wahine Māori which gives a more balanced perspective of iwi life.

The stories weave historical facts and stories to provide a first-hand written portraits, bringing to life the Ngāi Tahu person and the era in which they lived. The photographs add to this by providing faces and settings. Through the experiences of those who contributed their gifts to Ngāi Tahu life, readers are invited — and excited — to journey with and appreciate the path these characters have helped create for their iwi which continues today.

This book is essential reading for all who claim Ngāi Tahu descent and for those eager to understand Te Waipounamu history and development. Those with an interest in sociology will find a wealth of information in this work. It is a “must have” book for the benefit of their users for universities, schools and public libraries to have copies.

Tui Motu Magazine. Issue 271 June 2022: 27