Pounamu, an incredibly hard jade, was highly prized by the Maori for its beauty and durability, for its sharp cutting and its spiritual and healing powers. Often simply called Greenstone today, Pounamu was fundamental to the life of the people. Yet it was not won easily, for in nature it was hidden away in remote, mountainous terrain.

Barry Brailsford follows in the footsteps of those who searched the rivers and mountains of the wilderness for the precious Pounamu. In this edition he has written much that is new to open even wider perspectives on New Zealand’s past. Packed with maps and illustrations, this book will delight.

It is hoped to reprint it soon.