The Real Guide to New Zealand by Mark Danenhauer

The Real Guide to New Zealand is an entry-level investigation into the world of flora and fauna in our little part of the world. Written by Mark Danenhauer - a natural born American now living in New Zealand working for DoC - the book develops knowledge and interest in the world around us.

Filled with everything any aspiring naturist could ever wish for, the guide is packed with information that will satisfy even the most ardent lovers of the outdoors. Categorising all of New Zealand’s wondrous beauty into fourteen logical and linked sections such as trees, birds, fish and geology.

Traversing the country in its entirety, The Real Guide to New Zealand is a 101 of learning about New Zealand’s vast and incredible breadth of natural discoveries. The straight forward approach means it is accessible and, more than that, gives an insight into the protection of our vegetation and wildlife that is practical and meaningful.

Our natural history is fascinating. It gives a remarkable insight into the development and the ongoing changes in our unique landscape that keeps readers engaged. Years of working for DoC, traipsing around the country and noting down all the interesting elements of the nation, has brought with it a truly incredible knowledge of our world and now brings it to the nation through this guide book.

The latter sections break down the various creatures and trees into their species, giving the full gambit of information about each animal, insect, fish and foliage we have here in our country, and then giving a little more than most guidebooks by explaining a little more about the history and the biodiversity importance of each. Perhaps having a little more about the Māori significance may have made this an even more fascinating book.

Overall, this is a magnificent example of a book that both gives fascinating insight, but also a guide to understanding our world like never before. It’s a must read for every New Zealander - and every visitor to our little piece of paradise in the South Pacific.

Reviewer: Chris Reed

White Cloud Books