"Old New Zealand" by Frederick Edward Maning takes readers on a captivating journey back in time to explore the customs and character of the native people of New Zealand. Through engaging anecdotes and vivid descriptions, Maning offers a unique perspective on life in New Zealand during the 19th century. His firsthand experiences bring authenticity and depth to the portrayal of Maori culture, providing readers with a deeper understanding of the traditions and beliefs of the indigenous people. While some may find the colonial perspective of the author problematic, Maning's writing style and storytelling ability make this book an enjoyable and enlightening read for those interested in the history and culture of New Zealand."

Book Description:
Introduction to Old New Zealand Philip Steer Victoria University February 2004 Frederick Edward Maning is best known as an author, but he was also at times a trader and a judge of the Native Land Court. He was born in Dublin, Ireland on 5 July 1811 or 1812 and immigrated to Tasmania with his family in 1823. He lived in New Zealand from 1833 until 1882, when ill health forced him to seek medical care in England. He died in London on 25 July 1883, but was buried in New Zealand later that year. His Old New Zealand: A Tale of the Good Old Times is one of the few pre-twentieth century New Zealand literary texts that have not descended into obscurity with passing time. Historian Peter Gibbons describes it as perhaps one of the best known and most widely read of all works on early New Zealand and it has often been reprinted. Full introduction by Philip Steer