A History of Te Āpiti

Myth, geology, heritage, environment, engineering, commerce and recreation combine in this expansive illustrated tribute to a major transport corridor across the backbone of New Zealand’s lower North Island.
From geological origins to abrupt closure of its road transport link in April 2017, Te Āpiti Manawatū Gorge explores the many aspects of this scenic and dynamic landform.

With a new phase underway as construction of gorge replacement route Te Ahu a Turanga: Manawatū Tararua Highway commences, its publication couldn’t have been better timed.

Beautifully laid-out and embellished with maps, diagrams, historic photos and stunning contemporary images by photographer David Lupton, the handsome 300-page volume with perspectives from 15 contributors, was seven years in the making.

An outcome of the Manawatū Gorge Biodiversity Project 2006 – 2016, this carefully crafted compilation by environmental consultant Michele Frey is ‘a history’ in its broadest sense.

Pitched between leisure and activity guide, conservation manual, coffee table pictorial, heritage chronicle and reference work, Te Āpiti Manawatū Gorge is an accessible and easy read.

Printed on larger format gloss pages, themed chapters make it easy enough to dip in and out of, or to read in-depth.

Capturing the essence of place, it is also a book likely to inspire further physical exploration of a landmark taonga and heritage site.