Our Land in Colour

Our Land in Colour reveals the tapestry of Aotearoa New Zealand's history through an extraordinary compilation of visually stunning images. By meticulously bringing colour to photographs originally captured in black and white, this majestic volume transports readers to a bygone era, breathing life into historical moments that shaped the nation. The collection, spread over 400 pages, showcases two hundred images that span a century, offering an unparalleled view of New Zealand from 1860 to 1960.

During this period, the land of the long white cloud was a vast and often isolated frontier. Communities were tightly knit, resilient, and self-sufficient, navigating the rugged terrain to create livelihoods from the earth. People lived under the expansive sky, developing an identity profoundly connected to the vast outdoors. This book provides a visual narrative capturing the essence of these formative years, long before the advent of colour photography, widespread urbanisation, and major technological advances like television and jet-airliners reshaped the societal landscape.

Our Land in Colour showcases how New Zealanders adapted ingeniously to their environment. It highlights everyday activities that reveal how they fed, clothed, housed, and transported themselves in a land that was at times hostile. Each photograph is a testament to the Kiwi spirit, reflecting the solidarity and collective resilience that have become intrinsic to the nation's identity.

These colourised images also offer poignant glimpses into significant events and people, from post-colonial endeavours and indigenous Māori culture to the influx of immigrants endeavouring to make Aotearoa their new home. Every commentary by Jock Phillips adds layers of meaning and context, enhancing the reader's understanding of each historical snapshot.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, an art aficionado, or someone with a love for New Zealand, Our Land in Colour serves as a captivating time capsule. It isn’t merely a book; it’s a journey back in time, reconnecting readers with the vignettes of New Zealand’s past, renewed in vibrant hues. This collection will evoke nostalgia and a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage and enduring spirit of Aotearoa New Zealand.