Rediscover the pleasure of giving or receiving a book (or books) this Christmas. We’re sharing a roundup of some of our favorites – conveniently grouped into our Top Picks for your Christmas gift shopping.
Coffee table books
Books that deserve to be on display, allowing you to dip into at your leisure or revisit for sheer visual and literary pleasure.
Floral Abundance by Kate Williams
Bateman Books, $69.99
Rediscover your appreciation for relaxing with a beautiful book; this is definitely one to treasure. As the author, photographer and illustrator, Kate Williams deserves all the accolades for this stunning offering. It’s a feast of inspiration; delivered through moments captured of seasonal blooms, home-grown food, gatherings and natural beauty. Floral Abundance is themed around Kate’s styling from her own gardens and property, focusing on capturing the moments in life which encourage calm and a reason to pause and soak in your surroundings. Part whimsy, party floral guide and recipe book, it’s a slice of warmth for the soul and mind. And if you’re looking for inspiration for the festive season or styling ideas for special celebrations, this is the one to cherish.
The Long Shadow by Cally Whitham
Bateman Books, $89.99
If ever there was reason to revisit the art of gifting books, it’s The Long Shadow. While the focus is on exploring the history of the animals and birds that settlers brought to New Zealand – and the consequences of their arrival, it also offers deep and evocative insights into our ecosystems, extinction and ecological imbalance. The well researched prose focuses on how introduced species changed the fauna of New Zealand, and while every word is worth pouring over, without doubt, it is the 19th Century-style portraits and imagery which linger in your mind and merit frequent revisiting. Cally Whitham’s prowess as a photographer is undeniable – each breathtaking image is hauntingly arresting and worthy of framing for posterity. From livestock and birds to woodland creatures and those which are extinct, The Long Shadow is a gloriously rich historical gallery.
Towards Modernism: The Walter Cook Collection at Te Papa by Justine Olsen
Te Papa Press, $75
Wellington-born Walter Cameron Cook boasts a fascinating history – and if you’re not familiar, this lusciously illustrated book not only shares his personal story, but also captures and records his socially important yet mesmerizing collection of everything from glass, ceramic and metal objects. Built up over a 25 year period, his collection tracks the evolution of design from the Arts and Crafts movement through to 1970s British and European modernism. Enjoy browsing the collection with magnificent imagery to peruse, whilst also being immersed in what is essentially an engaging short course of design history. Author Justine Olsen has worked at the Museum of New Zealand Te papa since 2009 as Curator Decorative Art and Design and her obsessive research is evident here, whilst also introducing this important collection to a fresh audience.
Aotearoa Light by Peter Laurenson
Bateman Books, $69.99
Most of us have reached for our phone to capture a sunset or sunrise, or perhaps a ray of light peeking through the branches of a tree. Author and photographer Peter Laurenson offers page after page of wondrous landscapes of New Zealand, each bathed in its own unique light and each sharing a single moment of exquisite time. From coastlines and rivers to forests, snow and ice, it’s a seductive journey around the landscapes of Aotearoa. It is also Peter’s personal odyssey shared in photographs and words. His love of the wilderness of New Zealand is undeniable, as he shares poignant moments which can only be described as a love letter to each distinctive landscape or vista. Aotearoa Light also delicately reminds the reader/viewer of the sense of responsibility to give back to nature and tread lightly on the environment. As well as capturing his wilderness adventures, it’s a book of elegant beauty to be enjoyed by all.
Golf, The Iconic Courses by Frank Hopkinson
Allen & Unwin, $69.99
Whether or not golf is your game of choice, this breathtaking showcase of the world’s most scenic and legendary golf courses is a visual delight, spanning everything from soaring clifftops and Nevada desert to secluded Scottish Highlands. Featuring glorious photography by David Cannon and Gary Lisbon, it celebrates some of the most luscious courses around the globe. Cape Kidnappers Te Awanga (Hawke’s Bay), Jack’s Point (Queenstown), Kauri Cliffs (Takou Bay) and Te Arai represent New Zealand, sitting alongside golf courses that celebrate wild Irish landscapes, the lush jungles of Vietnam and Mexico’s rugged cliffs. Discover the history and legacy of more than 50 courses featured, and the interesting stories of each course.
NZ authors
Celebrating New Zealand authors across all genres
Gold Under The Mānuka by Bill Mouat
Bateman Books, $49.99
While the story of how Mangaorapa Station was shaped is a fascinating read on its own merits, this meticulously compiled story also chronicles events in New Zealand from the 1930s through to today. Taking the reader behind the gates of a truly remarkable farming property, the journey is even more engaging as author Bill Mouat is part of that history, having spent six decades on Mangaorapa Station, where his grandfather Billy Mouat (who left school aged 12 to work as a labourer) first started the journey to transform seemingly worthless scrubland into an innovative farming operation. Featuring hundreds of original photographs and documents, it’s a fascinating insight into a family of pioneers and the legacy they created.
Outliers by Michael Jackson
Ugly Hill Press, $40
Award winning author Michael Jackson is a prolific writer, boasting more than 40 works of fiction, poetry, memoir and anthropology, and achieving an impressive array of accolades including the Commonwealth Poetry Prize, the New Zealand Book Award for Poetry, and the Katherine Mansfield Menton Fellowship. Outliers is a collection of eight beautifully crafted individual and unrelated tales. It’s an unexpected and surprising read, with the calibre of writing drawing you into each world and the characters within. It’s a difficult book to sum up easily – the series of short stories share a theme of exploring Antipodean characters so there’s some connectivity and an innate understanding of character’s personality traits, although it’s not always clear where the lines of facts or fiction are drawn. Each story draws the reader in and leaves the mind pondering and musing.
Julia Eichardt by Lauren Roche
Flying Books Publishing, $36.99
The real account of Queenstown’s iconic lakefront hotel, Eichardt’s, this historical novel is told through the remarkable life of its namesake, Julia Eichardt. The story begins with Julia’s Irish family arriving in Australia, before following Julia and her brother through to New Zealand during the Otago gold rush. Once in Queenstown the story unfolds through the triumphs and tragedies of Julia’s life. Referencing historical records including court cases, births, deaths and marriages, this is a great way to learn about the founding of Queenstown, the gold rush and how hard life was in the 1860’s for those living in Otago. By the final page, readers will have absorbed a wealth of history—without ever cracking open a textbook. Author Lauren Roche is a two-time Ironman finisher and retired from working as a medical doctor in 2019 after suffering a spinal cord injury during routine back surgery. She has made the switch from being an active health professional to a writer, and Julia Eichardt is her second novel, and first venture into historical fiction.
Hooked by Al Brown, illustrated by Hope McConnell
Allen & Unwin, $35
From knots and fishing tips, to identifying various species and using all parts of the fish, Hooked is a great catch for any keen young (or old) angler, from a newcomer to an ‘expert’. Appealingly illustrated by Hope McConnell, Hooked serves up everything any potential fisher might need to know, as well as a tasty lineup of Al Brown’s favourite recipes heroing the catch of the day. Al’s obvious love of fishing is infused throughout the book, and even if you’re not interested in casting off into this world yourself, it’s still a fun read, likely to elicit a chuckle (check out the chapter on your lucky fishing hat). It’s a great starting point for anyone interested in having a go -perfect for popping into a Christmas stocking.
Riding the Echo Down by Peter Ryan
Bateman Books, $49.99
There are numerous books filled with great Kiwi hunting adventures, most of which have a humorous tilt or are narrated around a single hunting character. However, author Peter Ryan manages to successfully capture the wider nuances of hunting adventures, along with capturing all of the elements to satisfy those with a strong nostalgic interest in the history of hunting. As well as exploring the lives of great hunters of the past (from early New Zealand to Africa, Asia and the Americas), he also looks at the future of wilderness hunting, and how to foster adventure in young lives today. Meticulously researched over years, it’s a fascinating collection of adventure stories, important historical moments and valuable insights.
For the foodies
Flavoursome reads for those who appreciate the full foodie experience.
Nourish by Chelsea Winter
Allen & Unwin, $49.99
Chelsea Winter is in her glow up era and it shows. While her heart still remains true to hearty, well-loved classics, this enticing selection of recipes returns to meat, eggs, dairy and fish, all sharing the underlying intention to nourish. There’s even a fresh new take on the iconic chicken pie that started all of it! The eighth book in her must-have collection, Chelsea shows she can still deliver fresh ideas, based around wholeseome ingredients, and designed to help all ages achieve impressive results with minimum fuss. Her straightforward approach sets her apart and delivers a sense of food empowerment. It’s obvious how much care and thought has gone into the creation of Nourish and we’re happily adding it to our shelf.
Nadias Farm Kitchen by Nadia Lim
Bateman Books, $55
Nadia Lim continues to go from strength to strength. Hot on the heels of her newest TV show Nadia’s Farm Kitchen, based at her 485ha home, Royalburn Station, comes this perfectly timed and deeply personal cookbook. While the mouthwatering 70 recipes are reason enough to make this your favourite summer and Christmas read, Nadia’s heartfelt short stories about life on the farm are equally appealing. Organised by season, it’s an ode to the joys of simple food grown locally, celebrating natural flavours, sustainability and the simple pleasures of real food.
Fatimas by Kirsty Senior and Sophie Gilmour
Bateman Books, $59.99
Spice up your culinary repertoire and learn the delicate art of finessing flavours to elevate everything from breakfast eggs to baking. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Auckland eatery Fatimas, or appreciate and love flavour bombs, Kirsty and Sophie share a little of the magic that has kept Fatimas so beloved for the past 30 years. Peppered with anecdotes, infused with the sheer joy of cooking and serving up more than 100 recipes; the foreword says it all: “We want this book to become your family’s favourite, dog-eared, food-splotched, and full of bookmarks. The kind of book that lives on the kitchen bench, not the coffee table.” Mission accomplished.
The Food Farm by Angela Clifford & Nick Gill
Bateman Books, $55
Journey into the world of Angela Clifford, Nick Gill and their children, as they share their 20-year growing and food journey on a 16-acre permaculture property in North Canterbury. At the same time, you can harness their knowledge, enjoy seasonal guides and a seasonal diary to help grow and source your own food, along with learning the art of preserving to get the most out of harvest time. If you’ve ever had even a passing interest in growing your own produce, or understanding the power of community and sufficiency, The Food Farm is the perfect place to learn and be inspired. Packed with recipes, as well as sowing, harvesting and foraging wisdom, it’s perfect for anyone looking to reconnect with the nurturing power of home-grown food.
For the youngsters
A magical mix of tales that are perfect for young readers
Kuwi The Kiwi Treasury by Kate Quin
Illustrated Publishing, $49.99
Author and artist Kat Quin grew up in a small rural Waikato town. Her early love of art, affinity with nature and tender touch with words and illustrations is evident in every element of her work. This beautifully presented hardback compilation of Kuwi the Kiwi tales is destined to become a treasured family keepsake, ideal to hand on down through the generations. It also makes a perfect Kiwi Christmas gift, with five delightful Kuwi stories to charm youngsters, and plenty to capture the imagination. Explore the detailed drawings for Kiwiana additions, and enjoy a gentle introduction to Te Reo Māori (with a translation page at the back of the book). Plus a portion from each book sold is donated to Save the Kiwi.
Kua Kainamu te Kirihimete Christmas Countdown by Norah Wilson & Kimberly Andrews
Scholastic NZ, $19.99
The newest offering from the Oma Rāpeti/Run Rabbit bilingual series, this lovely Christmas-themed read-along see Little Rabbit counting down the days until Christmas (five days). Making decorations and cookies, singing songs and wrapping gifts, Rāpeti and his family prepares. Shaped around simple text, Kua Kainamu te Kirihimete offers an accessible introduction to basic reo Maori and the numbers 1-5. Kimberly Andrews’ signature watercolour artwork adds warmth and visual appeal.
Meri Kirihimete, Kereru by Juliette MacIver & Daron Parton
Allen & Unwin, $22.99
Kiwi, Tūī, Tuatara, Kererū and friends all want different special things for Christmas. Kiwi wants to fly, Tuatara wants a soft place to lie, Snail wants more speed, Tūī wants a mirror, but what does Kererū want? Join the lively crew with this lovely Christmas story – enjoyable for all ages thanks to the rhyming story line. Delightful characterful illustrations will keep youngsters fascinated on each page.
Keith and the Kitten by Elaine Bickell and Minky Stapleton
Scholastic NZ, $21.99
Adorable illustrations packed with personality capture the heart of Keith the tiny Chihuahua (and his big attitude), and Queenie the fluffy kitten. Sibling rivalry, jealousy, mischief and mayhem ensue as the pair come to grips with sharing the same home. Playful and fun, this one is sure to get youngsters giggling.
Nee Naw’s Cracker Christmas by Deano Yipadee & Bruce Potter
Scholastic NZ, $21.99
Nee Naw is ready to party at Granny’s place, but Plinky and Plonky the goats are in the Christmas tree. Joined by his friends Ellie Copter, Dusty the Digger, Moto Mike and Toot the Tow Truck, the mission is underway to save Christmas. With a catchy sing-along song and fun rhyming text, this brightly illustrated Christmas tale captures all the magic of the festive season.
Quarto Publishing, $59
Pick a number, any number, and find a fascinating fact to discuss, learn more about or share. 365 snippets of interest (no.172: Female mosquitos have 47 ‘teeth’ on their mouthparts) are the perfect way to engage with youngsters of all ages. From space and history to animals and mythology, it’s the ideal book for keeping kids entertained instead of digital devices. Take it on your travels or start or end your day with a new number and fact. Find out where in the world you can swim in a fluorescent lake, and where it rains diamonds.
Where Would You Go? by Alison Lester & Jane Godwon
Allen & Unwin, $22.99
A wonderful collaboration of creativity from the children of Yalingbu Yirramboi – The Royal Children’s Hospital School and award-winning creators, Alison Lester and Jane Godwin. Journey into the imagination of children and enjoy the vibrant colours and magical illustrations of magical worlds where flowers are made of ice-cream and trees that are of toffee, and more.’
My Friend, Billy Whiskers by David Lirchfield
Allen & Unwin, $27.99,
The artwork is just as much of a hero as the story here, with the heart-warming theme around friendships, bravery and feelings beautifully crafted on each page. Patrick’s friend Billy Whiskers is always there for him, especially during the most challenging times. What happens when Patrick meets some new friends and needs some extra courage? A lovely tale which touches on themes which most children encounter. Prepare to read it on repeat!
