Author(s): Church, Ian

Rotorua Books

The first major history of the Blueskin area since the 1950s, "Blueskin Days" draws extensively on new archives material and on the stories and reminiscences of those with a long connection to the area, as well as on previously published sources. It offers a comprehensive view of life in and around Blueskin Bay, beginning with the Maori of pre-European times and continuing right up to the present day. Topics reflect the wide diversity of the area and its rich history. They include archaeology, Maori history, local place names and their meanings, the first arrival of Europeans, agricultural settlement, the building of roads and railway, community life, military service, the Orokonui Home, the development of seaside resorts, fishing, forestry, churches, school days, alternative lifestyles and colourful local characters.