Illustrated History of Central Otago and the Queenstown Lakes District (Paperback)

Central Otago is steeped in history. Old stone buildings and tumbledown cottages abound, wild rivers tumble through rocky gorges and mine-scarred landscapes, and fertile valleys and vineyards are a startling green against golden tussock and dry hills. With its small towns and picturesque villages, this is the loveliest and the most intriguing region in New Zealand. Find out about the personalities and events that have shaped this unique place in this richly illustrated history. Discover unexplored territory with the moa hunters, early explorers Reko and Chalmers, the first surveyor (and father of nine daughters) John Turnbull Thompson, and the founders of Queenstown, William & Francis Rees. Learn how the region was shaped by the Chinese gold miners, the stock and station companies, the pioneer orchardists - and the feral rabbit. Meet the Frenchman who planted the first vines, and Hannah Hayes, the cycling saleswoman. Gerald Cunningham lives with his wife Susan in Lauder, Central Otago. This is his third book on this fascinating region. His Guide to Otago Central Rail Trail and Guide to Otago Goldfields Heritage Trail are highly successful.