The Penguin History of New Zealand

The Penguin History of New Zealand by Michael King offers a compelling and comprehensive narrative of New Zealand's past, presenting an inclusive story of both Māori and Pākehā. Spanning the full sweep of the country's history, from its geological origins to the present day, King meticulously details the cultural, social, and political developments that have shaped New Zealand into the nation it is today.

First published in 2003, this bestseller quickly cemented itself as the definitive reference for understanding New Zealand's complex history. King's extensive research and balanced analysis provide readers with a nuanced perspective on key events and figures, from the initial Polynesian settlement to the impacts of European colonisation and the modern era's evolving societal changes.

New Zealand, renowned for being the last place on Earth discovered and settled by humankind, also holds the distinction of being the first country to establish full democracy. The country's history is marked by intense and rapidly evolving human activity, making its past both unique and significant on a global scale. King captures this dynamic history vividly, exploring the reasons behind British colonisation and highlighting the resilience and adaptability of the Māori people.

The Penguin History of New Zealand remains a seminal work for anyone seeking to comprehend New Zealand's past. King's narrative illustrates the humane motivations behind British colonisation and showcases the Māori's heroic adaptability in the face of Western influence, blending tragic and triumphant elements into a cohesive story of survival and adaptation.

This updated edition, made even more relevant today, includes a Foreword by Sir Tipene O'Regan and a biographical essay on Michael King by Jock Phillips, offering additional insights into the author's life and contributions to New Zealand historiography.

Accolades for the book include the Platinum Premier New Zealand Bestseller Readers' Choice Award, the 2004 Montana New Zealand Book Awards, and the Nielsen BookData New Zealand Booksellers' Choice Award for Best of the Best in 2011. With over 300,000 copies sold and two decades in continual print, The Penguin History of New Zealand stands as a testament to its enduring significance and readability.