2025 Supreme Winner, Margaret Mahy Book of the Year & Elsie Locke Award for Non-Fiction Winner 2025
Judges comment "Ross Calman introduces this book by acknowledging that history is not one but many stories, told by a multiplicity of voices, each with their own cultural, political, and personal context. This idea may be new to readers, and it's presented with great honesty – yes, this history too has a viewpoint, and perhaps an unfamiliar one.
The Treaty of Waitangi is a miracle of concision without sacrificing complexity. It is written clearly and inclusively without avoiding uncomfortable truths; multiple sources are cited so that young readers are able to continue their learning about this important topic. At a time when the relevance of te Tiriti is being questioned, Ross Calman makes the case for its enduring power as this country's founding and legitimising document with refreshing integrity.
This book, like te Tiriti itself, is for us all." visit www.nzbookawards.nz
The story of The Treaty of Waitangi/Te Tiriti o Waitangi is one of the greatest in New Zealand history. It marks the moment British and Maori history intersected and a new nation was formed.
In The Treaty of Waitangi, Ross Calman outlines the impact of the Treaty from early contact between Māori and European settlers and signing around the country through to its revitalisation in the twentieth century, the formation of the Waitangi Tribunal and the present-day debates about its place at the centre of political and cultural life
Extensive illustrations, photos and fact boxes examine New Zealand's founding document from a range of viewpoints, and highlight the importance of Te Tiriti as a key to understanding the nation's past, present and future
This eighth book further extends Oratia's NZ Series, a non-fiction resource for general readers and schools, introducing complex subjects in concise terms.
Ross Calman (Ngāti Raukawa, Ngāti Toa, Kāi Tahu) is a distinguished author and editor who has written widely on the Treaty of Waitangi and the New Zealand Wars. With Oratia Books his works include He Atua, He Tangata: The World of Māori Mythology and Favourite Maori Legends. He lives in Ōtautahi/Christchurch.
Paperback, 100 pages
H: 240mm W: 160mm Spine: 19mm
Weight: 300 grams