Wiremu Pere: The Life and Times of a Maori Leader, 1837-1915

Wiremu Pere lived from 1837 to 1915, leading his tribes of Rongowhakaata and Te Aitanga a Mahaki through some of the most turbulent chapters of New Zealand history. He stood resolute against colonialism and entered parliament to stand up for his East Coast people, yet was astute in his business dealings and was compromised in the views of many Pakeha and Maori. This handsome book is a rare biography of a 19th century Maori leader, plentifully illustrated with photographs and maps, and contains extended whakapapa/genealogy charts for Wi Pere whanau. The book sets out the many aspects of Wi Pere's life and times with a particular focus on his family life, parliamentary career and contributions to the East Coast.