Mangakuri by Hugh McBain
This beautifully produced hardback book covers the history of the Mangakuri coastal sheep station in Hawke’s Bay, from the 13th century to today, encompassing the Māori who relied on food from land and sea and the arrival of European settlers. It traces the land's history from early Māori settlement and the arrival of the Williams family and William Colenso as early missionaries to the present day.
In 1876, the Williams family acquired Mangakuri Station, which remained intact until 1905, when it was subdivided into five properties and later into further subdivisions.
And what a life these people have had in this stunning location. They have faced severe droughts and extreme rainfall. But the coastal location also brought advantages: Māori once gathered food, farm workers loaded wool into boats, and now families gather to swim and fish.
This well-written book brings the land, farming, and people to life, and it is made all the more interesting with numerous colour and black-and-white photographs and illustrations. It’s a fascinating history and insightful look at sheep and cattle farming, as well as the diversification into forestry, and the tight-knit community that enjoys life in this part of Aotearoa. Interestingly, today around 30 percent of the original station remains in family ownership – so it’s great to see family members today featured near the back of the book.
Reviewer: Karen McMillan
Quentin Wilson Publishing
