A new edition of the bestselling short history on New Zealand, updated to include the Helen Clark years, the rise of John Key, the Christchurch earthquakes and the 2011 Rugby World Cup!

A lively and accessible history written by one of our most well-known commentators on matters past and present. Succinct and well referenced, this book is the most accessible introduction to New Zealand history currently in print.

Gordon McLauchlan is well-known as an author, journalist and social commentator. He has written for many newspapers and magazines and published numerous books. His specific areas of interest are the historical, social and political heritage of New Zealanders, literature, agriculture, tourism and media.