Publications

We publish books, media releases, annual reports, articles, studies and a quarterly newsletter.

Waitakere Ranges Bibliography

Much has been written about the Waitakere Ranges over the years, but here is a selection of important publications that you might find interesting.
Some are now out of print, but many are still available in book shops and most can be borrowed from Auckland Libraries.
If you know of any books that should be added to the list please email us with your suggestions.

Books

Waitakere Ranges- Ranges of Inspiration – Nature, History, Culture

Edited by Bruce and Trixie Harvey

This book describes the ecology, geology, history and art of the area.

The story of the Waitakere Ranges is written by many authors who tell us from various points of view, what it is about the Ranges that they love and value.

The book contains essays on the natural history, asserting the fascination and intrinsic value of the wildlife and proposing ideas to enhance it.

Other essays tell the history, both the destruction and conservation of the great forest and the lives of the people who settled here.

Maori past is presented as a poetic essay about the place names in history and legend.

The Ranges environment has inspired some of New Zealand’s most celebrated poets writers and artists, so the book concludes with the reproduction of works of art, poetry and prose that are identified with the area.

You can purchase the book from the Society.

Saving The Ranges

The first 40 years of the Waitakere Ranges Protection Society

Edited by Bruce and Trixie Harvey.

The book tells of the many people who have contributed to the conservation and protection of the Ranges and makes it clear that the work of the Society would not have flourished without the hundreds of members who have given their support.

The Society has been an environmental nursery for many people. Being associated with this inspirational group has been empowering.

Members have discovered that individually and collectively they can be effective, that they can make a difference in their communities and some have been encouraged to take up other causes.

And while the environmental movement in New Zealand was finding ways to be most effectual, local and regional Councils and the voting public were learning that protecting our environment really matters.

Although the Society has been very successful in its advocacy through protests and activism over the years, education, planning, litigation, conservation and community wellbeing have been equally important, and they remain a vital part of the Society’s work today.

You can purchase the book from the Society.